[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 65 (Wednesday, April 5, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 17276-17334]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-2854]


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Part IV





Department of Defense





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Department of the Army



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32 CFR Part 578



Decorations, Medals, Ribbons, & Similar Devices; Final Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 65 / Wednesday, April 5, 2006 / Rules 
and Regulations  

[[Page 17276]]


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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Department of the Army

32 CFR Part 578

RIN 0702-AA41


Decorations, Medals, Ribbons, & Similar Devices

AGENCY: Department of Army, DOD.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Department of the Army is revising our rule concerning the 
regulation that prescribes policy, criteria, and administrative 
instructions concerning individual military awards. This rule finalizes 
the proposed rule that was published in the Federal Register on 
November 2, 2005.

DATES: Effective Date: May 5, 2006.

ADDRESSES: U.S. Army Human Resources Command, Military Awards Branch, 
ATTN: AHRC-PDO-PA, 200 Stovall Street, Alexandria, VA 22332-0471.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Denise Harris, U.S. Army Human 
Resources Command, Military Awards Branch at (703)325-9171.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

A. Background

    In the November 2, 2005, issue of the Federal Register (70 FR 
66602), the Department of the Army issued a proposed rule to revise 32 
CFR part 578. This final rule incorporates laws enacted and policies 
approved by AR 600-8-22, Military Awards, in October 1990. The 
Department of the Army received a response from one commenter, 
requesting that the Army implement a policy to create a medal to 
accompany a Department of Defense certificate. The commenter was 
informed that the Army does not govern the certificate in question, and 
therefore cannot create a medal to accompany the certificate. The 
commenter was also advised to submit a written request for creation of 
a new medal to the Department of Defense.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    This rule has been reviewed under the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 
U.S.C. 601-612, which requires the preparation of a regulatory 
flexibility analysis for any regulation that will have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities (i.e., small 
businesses and small governments). The Department of the Army has 
determined that this rule will have no significant economic impact on 
small entities.

C. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply, because the rule does 
not impose any information collection requirements that require the 
approval of the Office of Management and Budget under 44 U.S.C. 3501, 
et seq.

D. Executive Order 12866

    According to the criteria listed in section 3(f) of Executive Order 
12866, HQ, U.S. Army Human Resources Command has determined that the 
proposed rule is not a significant regulatory action. As such, the 
proposed rule is not subject to Office of Management and Budget review 
under section 6(a)(3) of the Executive Order.

E. Eric Porter,
Brigadier General, United States Army, The Adjutant General.

List of Subjects in 32 CFR Part 578

    Decorations, Medals, Awards, Military personnel.

0
For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Department of the Army is 
revising 32 CFR part 578 to read as follows:

PART 578--DECORATIONS, MEDALS, RIBBONS, & SIMILAR DEVICES

General

Sec.
578.1 Purpose.
578.2 Explanation of terms.
578.3 Display sets of award elements and the Medal of Honor.
578.4 U.S. Military decorations.
578.5 Award recommendations.
578.6 Wartime criteria.
578.7 Peacetime criteria.
578.8 General rules.
578.9 Medal of Honor.
578.10 Distinguished Service Cross.
578.11 Distinguished Service Medal.
578.12 Silver Star.
578.13 Legion of Merit.
578.14 Distinguished Flying Cross.
578.15 Soldier's Medal.
578.16 Bronze Star Medal.
578.17 Purple Heart.
578.18 Meritorious Service Medal.
578.19 Air Medal.
578.20 Army Commendation Medal.
578.21 Army Achievement Medal.
578.22 Prisoner of War Medal.
578.23 National Defense Service Medal.
567.24 Antarctica Service Medal.
578.25 Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
578.26 Vietnam Service Medal.
578.27 Southwest Asia Service Medal.
578.28 Kosovo Campaign Medal.
578.29 Afghanistan Campaign Medal.
578.30 Iraq Campaign Medal.
578.31 Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.
578.32 Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
578.33 Korean Defense Service Medal.
578.34 Armed Forces Service Medal.
578.35 Humanitarian Service Medal.
578.36 Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.
578.37 Army Good Conduct Medal.
578.38 Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal.
578.39 Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon.
578.40 Overseas Service Ribbon.
578.41 Army Service Ribbon.
578.42 Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon.
578.43 Armed Forces Reserve Medal.
578.44 Korean Service Medal.
578.45 Medal of Humane Action.
578.46 Army of Occupation Medal.
578.47 World War II Victory Medal.
578.48 European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal.
578.49 Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal.
578.50 American Campaign Medal.
578.51 Women's Army Corps Service Medal.
578.52 American Defense Service Medal.
578.53 Army of Occupation of Germany Medal.
578.54 World War I Victory Medal.
578.55 Service medals and ribbons no longer available for issue.
578.56 United States Unit Awards.
578.57 Presidential Unit Citation.
578.58 Valorous Unit Award.
578.59 Meritorious Unit Commendation.
578.60 Army Superior Unit Award.
578.61 Appurtenances to military decorations.
578.62 Service ribbons.
578.63 Lapel buttons.
578.64 Miniature decorations.
578.65 Supply, service and requisition of medals and badges.
578.66 Original issue or replacement.
578.67 Manufacture, sale and illegal possession.
578.68 Badges and tabs; general.
578.69 Combat Infantryman Badge.
578.70 Combat Medical Badge.
578.71 Combat Action Badge.
578.72 Expert Infantryman Badge.
578.73 Expert Field Medical Badge.
578.74 Parachutist badges.
578.75 Parachutist Badge-Basic.
578.76 Senior Parachutist Badge.
578.77 Master Parachutist Badge.
578.78 Parachute Rigger Badge.
578.79 Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge.
578.80 Army Aviator Badges.
578.81 Flight Surgeon Badges.
578.82 Diver Badges.
578.83 Special Operations Diver Badge.
578.84 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badges.
578.85 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge-Basic.
578.86 Senior Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge.
578.87 Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge.
578.88 Pathfinder Badge.
578.89 Air Assault Badge.
578.90 Aviation Badges.
578.91 Aviation Badge-Basic.
578.92 Senior Aviation Badge.
578.93 Master Aviation Badge.
578.94 Driver and Mechanic Badge.
578.95 Glider Badge (Rescinded).
578.96 Nuclear Reactor Operator Badge (Rescinded).

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578.97 Marksmanship Qualification Badge.
578.98 Ranger Tab.
578.99 Special Forces Tab.
578.100 Sapper Tab.
578.101 Physical Fitness Badge.
578.102 U.S. Civilian Marksmanship Program.
578.103 President's Hundred Tab.
578.104 Identification Badges.
578.105 Presidential Service Badge and Certificate.
578.106 Vice Presidential Service Badge and Certificate.
578.107 Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge.
578.108 Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge.
578.109 Army Staff Identification Badge.
578.110 Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge.
578.111 Army ROTC Nurse Cadet Program Identification Badge.
578.112 Drill Sergeant Identification Badge.
578.113 U.S. Army Recruiter Identification Badge.
578.114 Career Counselor Badge.
578.115 Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Identification 
Badges.
578.116 U.S. Army Reserve Recruiter Identification Badge.
578.117 Foreign and International Decorations and Awards to U.S. 
Army Personnel--General.
578.118 Individual foreign decorations.
578.119 Foreign unit decorations.
578.120 Foreign badges.
578.121 United Nations Service Medal.
578.122 Inter-American Defense Board Medal.
578.123 Philippine Defense Ribbon.
578.124 Philippine Liberation Ribbon.
578.125 Philippine Independence Ribbon.
578.126 United Nations Medal.
578.127 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Medal.
578.128 Multinational Force and Observers Medal.
578.129 Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
578.130 Kuwait Liberation Medal--Saudi Arabia.
578.131 Kuwait Liberation Medal--Kuwait.
578.132 Republic of Korea War Service Medal.
578.133 Certificates for decorations.
578.134 Certificate of Achievement.
578.135 Certificate of appreciation to employers.
578.136 Certificates for badges.
578.137 Cold War Recognition Certificate.

    Authority: Sec. 3012, Pub. L. 84-1028, 70A Stat. 157; 10 U.S.C. 
3013.


Sec.  578.1  Purpose.

    The primary purpose of the awards program is to provide tangible 
evidence of public recognition for acts of valor and for exceptional 
service or achievement. Medals constitute one of the principal forms 
for such evidence; in the United States Army, medals are of the 
following categories:
    (a) Military decorations are awarded on a restricted individual 
basis in recognition of and as a reward for heroic, extraordinary, 
outstanding, and meritorious acts, achievements, and services; and such 
visible evidence of recognition is cherished by recipients. Decorations 
are primarily intended to recognize acts, achievements, and services in 
time of war.
    (b) The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded in recognition of 
exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity during enlisted status in 
active Federal military service.
    (c) Service medals are awarded generally in recognition of 
honorable performance of duty during designated campaigns or conflicts. 
Award of decorations, and to a lesser degree, award of the Army Good 
Conduct Medal and of service medals, provide a potent incentive to 
greater effort, and are instrumental in building and maintaining 
morale.


Sec.  578.2  Explanation of terms.

    The following definitions are furnished for clarity and uniformity 
in the determination and award of decorations:
    (a) Above and beyond the call of duty. Exercise of a voluntary 
course of action, the omission of which would not justly subject the 
individual to censure for failure in the performance of duty. It 
usually includes the acceptance of existing danger or extraordinary 
responsibilities with praiseworthy fortitude and exemplary courage. In 
its highest degrees it involves the voluntary acceptance of additional 
danger and risk of life.
    (b) Active Federal military service. The term ``active Federal 
military service'' means all periods of active duty, Active Guard 
Reserve (AGR) service and, except for service creditable for the Armed 
Forces Reserve Medal, excludes periods of active duty for training 
(ADT) and full-time training duty (FTTD). Service as a cadet at the 
United States Military Academy is considered to be active duty for the 
purposes of military awards and decorations.
    (c) Active Guard Reserve. Army National Guard of the U.S. (ARNGUS) 
and U.S. Army Reserve (USAR) personnel serving on active duty (AD) 
under 10 U.S.C. and Army National Guard personnel serving on full-time 
National Guard duty (FTNGD) under 32 U.S.C. These personnel are on 
FTNGD or AD (other than training) for 180 days or more for the purpose 
of organizing, administering, recruiting, instructing, or training the 
Reserve Components and are paid from National Guard Personnel, Army or 
Reserve Personnel Army appropriations.
    (d) Area of operation. The foreign territory upon which troops have 
actually landed or are present and specifically deployed for the direct 
support of the designated military operation; adjacent water areas in 
which ships are operating, patrolling, or providing direct support of 
operations; and the airspace above and adjacent to the area in which 
operations are being conducted.
    (e) Award. Recognition given to individuals or units for certain 
acts or services, or badges, accolades, emblems, citations, 
commendations, streamers, and silver bands. Also an adjectival term 
used to identify administrative functions relating to recognition (for 
example, awards boards, award recommendations, and so forth).
    (f) Award precondition. Any eligibility criterion not specified by 
this regulation which must be met before awarding a decoration.
    (g) Biographical sketch. Identification of an individual that 
includes as a minimum: Full name, Social Security Number (SSN), date 
and place of birth, marital status, education, and military service.
    (h) Bravery. Quality or state showing courage; level of conduct 
which is expected of professional Army soldiers.
    (i) Combat heroism. Act or acts of heroism by an individual engaged 
in actual conflict with an armed enemy, or in military operations which 
involve exposure to personal hazards, due to direct enemy action or the 
imminence of such action.
    (j) Combat zone. The region where fighting is going on; the forward 
area of the theater of operations where combat troops are actively 
engaged. It extends from the frontline to the front of the 
communications zone.
    (k) Decoration. Distinctively designed mark of honor denoting 
heroism or meritorious/outstanding service/achievement for individuals 
and units.
    (l) Direct participation. ``Hands-on'' activity at the site, or 
sites, of the military act or operation. The individual must be 
physically present at the designated location, having contributed to 
and influenced the action.
    (m) Direct support. Services being supplied the combat forces in 
the area of operations by ground units, ships, and aircraft providing 
supplies and equipment to the forces concerned, provided it involves 
actually entering the designated area; and ships and aircraft providing 
fire, patrol, guard, reconnaissance, or other military support.
    (n) Distinguished himself or herself by. A person to have 
distinguished himself or herself must, by praiseworthy

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accomplishment, be set apart from other persons in the same or similar 
circumstances. Determination of this distinction requires careful 
consideration of exactly what is or was expected as the ordinary, 
routine, or customary behavior and accomplishment for individuals of 
like rank and experience for the circumstances involved.
    (o) Duty of great responsibility. Duty which, by virtue of the 
position held, carries the ultimate responsibility for the successful 
operation of a major command, activity, agency, installation, or 
project. The discharge of such duty must involve the acceptance and 
fulfillment of the obligation so as to greatly benefit the interests of 
the United States.
    (p) Duty of responsibility. Duty, which by virtue of the positions 
held, carries a high degree of the responsibility for the successful 
operation of a major command, activity, agency, installation, or 
project, or which requires the exercise of judgment and decision 
affecting plans, policies, operations, or the lives and well being of 
others.
    (q) Extraordinary heroism. Act or acts of heroism or gallantry 
involving the risk of life. Minimum level of valorous performance in 
combat consistent with a recommendation for the Distinguished Service 
Cross.
    (r) Foreign Decoration. Any order, device, medal, badge, insignia, 
emblem or award, tendered by or received from a foreign government.
    (s) Foreign government. Includes any unit of a foreign governmental 
authority, including any foreign national, State, local and municipal 
Government; any international or multinational organization whose 
membership is composed of any unit of foreign government described 
above; and any agent or representative of any such unit or organization 
while acting as such.
    (t) Gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life. Fearless 
spontaneous conduct at the certain risk of life, above and beyond the 
call of duty, which clearly sets the soldier apart from all other 
comrades. Minimum level of valorous performance in combat consistent 
with a recommendation for the Medal of Honor.
    (u) Gallantry in action. Spirited and conspicuous acts of heroism 
and courage. Minimum level of valorous performance in combat consistent 
with a recommendation for the Silver Star.
    (v) Heroism. Extreme courage demonstrated in attaining a noble end. 
Varying levels of documented heroic actions are necessary to 
substantiate recommendations for the Bronze Star Medal with ``V,'' Air 
Medal with ``V,'' and the Army Commendation Medal with ``V.''
    (w) In connection with military operations against an armed enemy. 
This phrase covers all military operations including combat, support, 
and supply which have a direct bearing on the outcome of an engagement 
or engagements against armed opposition. To perform duty or to 
accomplish an act of achievement in connection with military operations 
against an armed enemy, the individual must have been subjected either 
to personal hazard as a result of direct enemy action, or the imminence 
of such action, or must have had the conditions under which his duty or 
accomplishment took place complicated by enemy action or the imminence 
of enemy action.
    (x) Key individual. A person who is occupying a position that is 
indispensable to an organization, activity, or project.
    (y) Medal. A term used to--
    (1) Include the three categories of awards, namely: Decorations, 
Army Good Conduct Medal, and service medals.
    (2) Refer to the distinctive physical device of metal and ribbon 
which constitutes the tangible evidence of an award.
    (z) Meritorious Achievement. An act which is well above the 
expected performance of duty. The act should be an exceptional 
accomplishment with a definite beginning and ending date. The length of 
time is not a primary consideration; however, speed of accomplishment 
of an important task can be a factor in determining the value of an 
act.
    (aa) Meritorious Service. Service which is distinguished by a 
succession of outstanding acts of achievement over a sustained period 
of time. Individual performance must exceed that expected by virtue of 
grade and experience, based on accomplishments during an entire tour of 
duty.
    (bb) Military merit. Demonstrated conduct or character deserving of 
recognition.
    (cc) Officer. Except where expressly indicated otherwise, the word 
``officer'' means ``commissioned or warrant officer.''
    (dd) Operation. A military action, or the carrying out of a 
strategic, tactical, service, training, or administrative military 
mission; the process of carrying on combat including movement, supply, 
attack, defense, and maneuvers needed to gain the objectives of any 
battle or campaign.
    (ee) Outstanding or unusually meritorious performance. Performance 
of duty determined by the employing component to have contributed to an 
unusually significant degree toward the furtherance of good relations 
between the United States and the foreign government tendering the 
decoration. This requires that the service be of national significance 
to the foreign government and that it be performed under exceptionally 
difficult, extraordinary, or hazardous conditions.
    (ff) Peacetime criteria. (1) In a period when the United States is 
not engaged in the prosecution of a formal declared war.
    (2) Applied outside a combat zone when the United States is engaged 
in military operations against an armed enemy, but is not prosecuting a 
formally declared war, except that in the communications zone those 
individuals whose duties are in connection with military operations 
against an armed enemy may be considered under wartime criteria.
    (3) A period in specified areas where U.S. troops are engaged in 
military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force 
or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed 
conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is 
not a belligerent party.
    (gg) Primary next of kin. Primary next of kin are, in order of 
precedence, surviving spouse, eldest child, father or mother, eldest 
brother or sister, or eldest grandchild.
    (hh) Reserve Components of the Army. The Army National Guard of the 
United States and the U.S. Army Reserve.
    (ii) U.S. Individual Army decorations. U.S. Individual Army 
decorations are the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, 
Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, 
Distinguished Flying Cross, Soldier's Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Purple 
Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, 
and the Army Achievement Medal.
    (jj) U.S. unit decorations. U.S. unit decorations are the 
Presidential Unit Citation, Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit 
Commendation, and Army Superior Unit Award.
    (kk) Valor. Heroism performed under combat conditions.
    (ll) Wartime criteria. (1) A period of formally declared war and 
for 1 year after the cessation of hostilities.
    (2) A period of military operations against an armed enemy and for 
1 year after cessation of hostilities. Only those individuals actually 
in the combat zone or those in the communications zone whose duties 
involve direct control or support of combat operations are to be 
considered under wartime criteria.

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    (3) A period of national emergency declared by the President or by 
the Congress.


Sec.  578.3  Display sets of award elements and the Medal of Honor.

    (a) Government agencies. Upon approval by the Secretary of the 
Army, samples of military decorations may be furnished, without charge, 
for one display at the headquarters of each Army and higher field 
commander, in the offices of the chiefs of governmental agencies not 
under military jurisdiction where opportunity for the public to view 
the display is assured, and in each office of Headquarters, Department 
of the Army (HQDA) with activities that include matters pertaining to 
decorations.
    (b) Civilian institutions. Upon approval by the Secretary of the 
Army, samples of military decorations may be furnished, at cost price, 
to museums, libraries, and to national headquarters of historical, 
numismatic, and military societies; and to institutions of such public 
nature as will assure an opportunity for the public to view the 
exhibits under circumstances beneficial to the Army. All decorations 
furnished to civilian institutions for exhibition purposes will be 
engraved with the words, ``For Exhibition Purposes only.''
    (c) Requests. Letter requests for decorations for exhibit or 
display will be made to Commander, U.S. Army Human Resources Command 
(USA HRC), ATTN: AHRC-PDO-PA, 200 Stovall Street, Alexandria, VA 22332-
0471.
    (d) Display. Service medals for service prior to World War II will 
not be provided for display purposes since only minimum essential 
quantities are available for issue to authorized recipients.
    (e) Purchase of medals. Except for the Medal of Honor, all other 
decorations, service medals, and ribbons can be purchased from private 
vendors who have been issued a certificate of authority by the 
Institute of Heraldry. A list of certified vendors can be obtained from 
HQ, USA HRC (see Sec.  578.3 (c)).
    (f) Display sets of the Medal of Honor. Upon written requests, The 
Adjutant General of the Army can approve issue of a display Medal of 
Honor to government agencies (defined in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this 
section). Adequate security arrangement must be provided for the medal 
so that it will not be lost through vandalism or theft. Maximum 
exposure of the medal to the public must be ensured, on a free of 
charge basis, under circumstances beneficial to the Army.


Sec.  578.4  U.S. Military decorations.

    To whom awarded, see Table 1 below.

                                                                                             Table 1
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                                                      Awarded for:                                                                    Awarded to:
                                   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Decorations listed in order of                                                                            Military                                              Civilian
            precedence                     Heroism           Achievement or service  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                            United States                 Foreign                 United States                 Foreign
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Medal of Honor....................  Combat...............  n/a......................  War \1\..................  n/a......................  n/a......................  n/a.
Distinguished Service Cross.......  Combat...............  n/a......................  War......................  War......................  n/a......................  n/a.
Distinguished Service Medal.......  War..................  War & Peace..............  War & Peace..............  War & Peace..............  War \2\..................  War.\2\
Silver Star.......................  Combat...............  n/a......................  War......................  War......................  War \2\..................  War.\2\
Legion of Merit...................  n/a..................  War & Peace..............  War & Peace..............  War & Peace \5\..........  n/a......................  n/a.
Distinguished Flying Cross........  Combat...............  War & Peace \4\..........  War & Peace..............  War......................  n/a......................  n/a.
                                    Noncombat............
Soldier's Medal...................  Noncombat............  n/a......................  War & Peace \4\..........  War & Peace \4\..........  n/a......................  n/a.
Bronze Star Medal.................  Combat \3\...........  War & Peace \4\..........  War & Peace \4\..........  War & Peace \4\..........  n/a......................  n/a.
Purple Heart......................  For wounds received    n/a......................  War & Peace \7\,\8\......  n/a......................  n/a......................  n/a.
                                     as the result of
                                     hostile action.
Meritorious Service Medal.........  n/a..................  Peace & War \9\..........  Peace....................  Peace....................  n/a......................  n/a.
Air Medal.........................  Combat \3\...........  War & Peace \4\..........  War & Peace \4\..........  War......................  War \2\..................  War.\2\
                                    Noncombat............
Army Commendation Medal...........  Combat \3\...........  War......................  War & Peace \6\..........  War & Peace \6\..........  n/a......................  n/a.
                                    Noncombat............  Peace....................
Army Achievement Medal............  n/a..................  Peace & War \6\, \9\.....  Peace \6\................  Peace \6\................  n/a......................  n/a.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
\1\ The Medal of Honor is awarded only to U.S. military personnel.
\2\ Under limited circumstances. Recommendations will be forwarded to HQ, USA HRC for processing.
\3\ Awarded with Bronze ``V'' Device for valor in combat.
\4\ Awarded for peacetime when no formal war has been declared but the U.S. is engaged in military operations against an armed enemy.
\5\ Awarded to foreign military personnel in one of four degrees.
\6\ Not awarded to general officers.
\7\ Awarded to military personnel wounded by terrorists or while members of a peacekeeping force.
\8\ Approval authority is the Secretary of the Army.
\9\ Authorized for award in a combat theater for non-combat meritorious service and achievement.

Sec.  578.5  Award recommendations.

    (a) It is the responsibility and privilege of any individual having 
personal knowledge of an act, achievement, or service believed to 
warrant the award of a decoration to submit a recommendation for 
consideration. It is usually desirable that the intended recipient not 
be informed of a pending recommending or given an implied promise of an 
award prior to final approval and clearance. This is especially true 
when the intended recipient is a foreigner.
    (b) The Department of the Army (DA) Form 638 (Recommendation for 
Award) will be used to initiate, process and approve award 
recommendations of all

[[Page 17280]]

U.S. Army individual decorations, to include valor and heroism 
decorations.
    (c) Narrative description of meritorious service or achievement for 
awards of the Meritorious Service Medal (MSM), Army Commendation Medal 
(ARCOM), and Army Achievement Medal (AAM) will be limited to bullet 
format in the space allowed on the DA Form 638. Bullet format or 
narratives may be used for the Legion of Merit (LM). Narratives are 
required for all other awards and will be added as an addendum to the 
recommendation. Narrative should be prepared on 8\1/2\ by 11-inch bond 
paper and is limited to one double-spaced typewritten page except for 
recommendations of the Distinguished Service Medal and above. 
Narratives for valor must contain a description of the following 
elements: Terrain and weather of the area in which the action took 
place; enemy conditions, to include morale, proximity, firepower, 
casualties and situation prior to, during and after the act; the effect 
of the act on the enemy; the action of comrades in the immediate 
vicinity of the act and the degree of their participation in the act; 
if the act occurred in aerial flight, the type and position of the 
aircraft and the individual's crew position; the degree to which the 
act was voluntary; the degree to which the act was outstanding and 
exceeded what was normally expected of the individual; all unusual 
circumstances; and overall effects or results of the act.
    (d) Heroism award recommendations will contain statements of 
eyewitnesses, preferably in the form of certificates, affidavits, or 
sworn statements; extracts from official records; sketches; maps; 
diagrams; photographs; and so forth, which support and amplify stated 
facts for the heroism award.
    (e) Recommendations will be forwarded through command channels to 
the commander authorized to approve or disapprove it. Each intermediate 
commander/supervisor will recommend approval or disapproval, and cite 
specific reasons whenever disapproval is recommended.
    (f) Except for the provisions of 10 U.S.C. 1130 outlined in 
paragraph (g) of this section and lost awards, each recommendation for 
an award of a military decoration must be entered administratively into 
military channels within 2 years of the act, achievement, or service to 
be honored. Submission into military channels is defined as ``signed by 
the initiating official and endorsed by a higher official in the chain 
of command.''
    (g) Pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 1130, a Member of Congress can request 
consideration of a proposal for the award or presentation of decoration 
(or the upgrading of a decoration), either for an individual or unit, 
that is not otherwise authorized to be presented or awarded due to 
limitations established by law or policy. Based upon such review, the 
Secretary of the Army shall make a determination as to the merits of 
approving the award or presentation of the decoration and other 
determinations necessary to comply with congressional reporting under 
10 U.S.C. 1130.


Sec.  578.6  Wartime criteria.

    Wartime criteria, by whom awarded. The Medal of Honor is awarded 
only by the President. Other decorations are awarded by the President, 
the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of the Army. When wartime 
conditions erupt, authority to further delegate decorations approval 
authority will be requested from the Secretary of the Army. Initial 
delegation will be requested consistent with the award approval 
authority outlined in Table 2 below.

                                                     Table 2
                                 Delegation of Award Approval--Wartime Criteria
 The primary purpose of this table is to outline the various awards and decorations approval authorities for use
 during the immediate stages of Army combat operations. Once delegated, this authority is reviewed every 30, 60,
   or 90 days during combat operations to determine if further delegation is expedient and justified. Wartime
 delegation is withdrawn from approval authorities upon redeployment of the unit. This table is not absolute and
  is subject to change as necessary by the Secretary of the Army. Award approval levels outlined in Table 3 are
                                             applicable to Table 2.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Awards                    Approval authority      May further delegate          Awarded to
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medal of Honor.......................  President of the United  N/A....................  U.S. military
                                        States.                                           personnel.
DSC & all lesser decorations.........  Secretary of the Army    N/A....................  a. U.S. Army Active and
                                        or others as                                      Reserve Component
                                        designated by the                                 personnel.
                                        Secretary of the Army.                           b. U.S. Navy, Marine
                                                                                          Corps, Air Force, and
                                                                                          Coast Guard personnel
                                                                                          with concurrence of
                                                                                          the appropriate
                                                                                          Service Secretary.
DSC, SS, LM, DFC and SM..............  CG of a U.S. Army Force  MG and BG commanders     U.S. Army personnel and
                                        (Serving in the rank     (BG must be serving in   members of the other
                                        of General) (See note    MG position),            armed services and
                                        1).                      commanders of separate   members of the armed
                                                                 units, may award the     forces of forces of
                                                                 BSM, AM, and ARCOM       friendly foreign
                                                                 (See note 2).            nations in the ranks
                                                                                          comparable to the
                                                                                          grade of O-6 (COL) or
                                                                                          lower provided
                                                                                          concurrence is
                                                                                          obtained from that
                                                                                          Service or foreign
                                                                                          government.
BSM, AM, ARCOM.......................  Senior Army Commander    MG and BG (serving in    U.S. Army personnel and
                                        and commanders of a      MG positions)            members of the armed
                                        separate force serving   commanders of separate   forces of friendly
                                        in the rank of LTG       units, may award the     foreign nations in the
                                        (see note 1).            BSM, AM and ARCOM (see   ranks comparable to
                                                                 note 2).                 the grade of 0-6 (COL)
                                                                                          and below, provided
                                                                                          concurrence is
                                                                                          obtained from that
                                                                                          Service or foreign
                                                                                          government.
PH...................................  CG of any separate unit  To any field grade       Member of the Army and
                                        and Hospital             commander who has        member of other
                                        commanders receiving     orders issuing           Services provided
                                        casualties.              authority.               concurrence is
                                                                                          obtained from that
                                                                                          Service.

[[Page 17281]]

 
PUC, VUA, MUC........................  As provided in Sec.      Not further delegated..  U.S. units and foreign
                                        578-57; Sec.   578-58                             allied units (see Sec.
                                        and Sec.   578-59.                                  578-57; Sec.   578-
                                                                                          58; and Sec.   578-59.
Campaign Participation Credit........  Senior Army Commander    Not further delegated..  Only to eligible U.S.
                                        serving in the rank of                            Army units and RC
                                        LTG or higher.                                    units called to active
                                                                                          duty.
Assault landing Credit...............  Senior Army Commander    Not further delegated..  Only to eligible U.S.
                                        serving in the rank of                            Army units and RC
                                        LTG or higher.                                    units called to Active
                                                                                          duty. (DA General
                                                                                          Orders Issued)
Combat Badges........................  Commanding General of    To any field grade       See Sec.   578.69, Sec.
                                        any separate unit.       commander who has          578.70, Sec.
                                                                 orders issuing           578.71, Sec.   578.72,
                                                                 authority.               Sec.   578-74, Sec.
                                                                                          578-79, Sec.   578-84
                                                                                          and Sec.   578-99 for
                                                                                          specific elgibility
                                                                                          requirements for
                                                                                          combat requirements
                                                                                          for combat badges. See
                                                                                          also Table 9 on who
                                                                                          may be awarded these
                                                                                          badges.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. The senior Army commander (SAC) upon arrival in the theater of operations, or as soon thereafter as
  practical, will submit a request to CFR, USA HRC (see Sec.   578.3(c)), requesting this delegation be
  activated.
2. Authority to approve award of the ARCOM under wartime criteria may be delegated to Colonel level commanders.

Sec.  578.7  Peacetime criteria.

    Peacetime criteria, by whom awarded. Awards for peacetime service 
are made by the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary 
of the Army. When peacetime criteria apply, authority to award 
decorations is automatically delegated as shown in Table 3 below.

                                 Table 3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Delegation of award approving authority-peacetime criteria
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Commanders and principal HQDA
       agency officials             May award                To
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chief of Staff, U.S. Army.....  DSM and all less   All U.S. Army
                                 decorations.       personnel and
                                                    personnel of other
                                                    Services (see note
                                                    2).
General.......................  LM, MSM, ARCOM,    1. U.S. Army
                                 and AAM.           personnel.
                                                   2. U.S. Navy, Marine
                                                    Corps, and Air Force
                                                    Personnel below
                                                    brigadier general
                                                    attached to their
                                                    organizations (see
                                                    note 2).
Lieutenant General............  LM...............  1. U.S. Army
                                                    personnel upon
                                                    retirement or for
                                                    posthumous awards
                                                    only (except general
                                                    grade officers).
                                MSM, ARCOM, and    2. U.S. Army
                                 AAM.               personnel assigned
                                                    and attached for
                                                    duty to their
                                                    command or agency.
                                                   3. U.S. Navy, Marine
                                                    Corps, and Air Force
                                                    Personnel below
                                                    brigadier general
                                                    attached to their
                                                    organizations (see
                                                    note 2).
Major General.................  LM (see note 1)..  1. U.S. Army
                                                    personnel assigned
                                                    and attached for
                                                    duty to their
                                                    command or agency.
                                MSM, ARCOM, and    2. U.S. Navy, Marine
                                 AAM.               Corps, and Air Force
                                                    Personnel below
                                                    brigadier general
                                                    attached to their
                                                    organizations (see
                                                    note 2).
Brigadier General.............  MSM, ARCOM, and    1. U.S. Army
                                 AAM.               personnel assigned
                                                    and attached for
                                                    duty to their
                                                    command or agency.
                                                   2. U.S. Navy, Marine
                                                    Corps, and Air Force
                                                    Personnel below
                                                    brigadier general
                                                    attached to their
                                                    organizations (see
                                                    note 2).
Colonel.......................  ARCOM, AAM.......  1. U.S. Army
                                                    personnel assigned
                                                    and attached for
                                                    duty to their
                                                    command or agency.
                                                   2. U.S. Navy, Marine
                                                    Corps, and Air Force
                                                    Personnel below
                                                    brigadier general
                                                    attached to their
                                                    organizations (see
                                                    note 2).
Lieutenant Colonel............  AAM..............  1. U.S. Army
                                                    personnel assigned
                                                    and attached for
                                                    duty to their
                                                    command.
                                                   2. U.S. Navy, Marine
                                                    Corps, and Air Force
                                                    Personnel below
                                                    brigadier general
                                                    attached to their
                                                    organizations (see
                                                    note 2).
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 17282]]


                           Table 3--Continued
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Delegation of award approving authority-peacetime criteria
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Project Managers Program
  Managers, Product Managers,       May award                To
and Program Executive Officers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Major Generals and civilian     MSM, ARCOM and     Service members
 equivalent Senior Executive     AAM.               assigned to their
 Service (SES).                                     projects (see note
                                                    2).
Brigadier Generals and          MSM, ARCOM and     Service members
 civilian equivalent SES.        AAM.               assigned to their
                                                    projects (see note
                                                    2).
Colonels and civilian           ARCOM and AAM....  Service members
 equivalent General Schedule                        assigned to their
 (GS) 15.                                           projects (see note
                                                    2).
Lieutenant Colonels...........  AAM..............  Service members
                                                    assigned to their
                                                    projects (see note
                                                    2).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. Major Army commanders and officials of principal HQDA agencies in the
  grade of Major General have authority to approve awards of the Legion
  of Merit, to retiring and deceased persons, other than general
  officers, assigned to their commands or agencies.
2. See paragraph 1-36, AR 600-8-22 for instructions on awarding Army
  decorations to members of the other U.S. Services.

Sec.  578.8  General rules.

    (a) Awards for civilian service. Awards for DA civilians are 
governed by Army Regulation (AR) 672-20, Incentive Awards. AR 672-20 
provides implementing instructions for incentive awards, honorary 
awards and devices, awards from nonfederal organizations, and medals 
for public service.
    (b) Posthumous awards. Awards may be made following the death of 
the person being honored in the same manner as they are made for a 
living person except that the orders and citation will indicate that 
the award is being made posthumously. The engraved medal and 
certificate will not contain the word posthumous. Orders announcing the 
award, together with the certificate, medal, citation and related 
documents will be forwarded to the appropriate commander for 
presentation. Eligible classes of next of kin are listed in the order 
of their precedence in Sec.  578.2 (gg).
    (c) Interim awards and awards of a lesser decoration. (1) To ensure 
that a deserving act, achievement, or service receives recognition, the 
appropriate authority may promptly award a suitable lesser military 
decoration pending final action on a recommendation for a higher award, 
except for retiring U.S. Army general officers. When a higher award is 
approved, the approving authority will revoke the interim award in the 
same orders published for the higher award. The decoration will be 
returned by the recipient, unless the higher award is approved 
posthumously, in which case the next of kin will be permitted to retain 
both awards.
    (2) The authority taking final action may award the decoration 
recommended, award a lesser decoration (or consider the interim award 
as adequate recognition), or in the absence of an interim award, 
disapprove award of any decoration.
    (d) Duplication of awards. (1) Only one decoration will be awarded 
to an individual or unit for the same act, achievement, or period of 
meritorious service.
    (2) The award of a decoration in recognition of a single act of 
heroism or meritorious achievement does not preclude an award for 
meritorious service at the termination of an assignment. 
Recommendations for award of a decoration for meritorious service will 
not refer to acts of heroism or meritorious achievements, which have 
been previously recognized by award or decoration.
    (3) Continuation of the same or similar type service already 
recognized by an award for meritorious service or achievement will not 
be the basis for a second award. If appropriate, an award may be made 
to include the extended period of service by superseding the earlier 
award, or the award previously made be amended to incorporate the 
extended period of service.
    (e) Conversion of awards. Awards of certain decorations (Silver 
Star, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Army Commendation Medal) on 
the basis of existing letters, certificates, and/or orders, as 
hereinafter authorized will be made only upon letter application of the 
individuals concerned to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC), 
9700 Page Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100 (Soldiers who retired or 
were discharged on or after October 1, 2002 should send their requests 
to the Commander, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, St. Louis, ATTN: 
AHRC-CC-B, 1 Reserve Way, St. Louis, MO 63132-5200).
    (f) Character of service. No decoration shall be awarded or 
presented to any individual whose entire service subsequent to the time 
of the distinguished act, achievement, or service shall not have been 
honorable. The Act of July 9, 1918 (40 Stat. 871) as amended (10 U.S.C. 
1409); the Act of July 2, 1926 (44 Stat. 789), as amended (10 U.S.C. 
1429).
    (g) Time limitations. (1) Except for the provisions of 10 U.S.C. 
1130 and lost awards addressed below, each recommendation for an award 
of a military decoration must be entered administratively into military 
channels within 2 years of the act, achievement, or service to be 
honored. Submission into military channels is defined as ``signed by 
the initiating official and endorsed by a higher official in the chain 
of command.''
    (2) Pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 1130, a Member of Congress can request 
consideration of a proposal for the award or presentation of decoration 
(or the upgrading of a decoration), either for an individual or unit, 
that is not otherwise authorized to be presented or awarded due to 
limitations established by law or policy. Based upon such review, the 
Secretary of the Army shall make a determination as to the merits of 
approving the award or presentation of the decoration and other 
determinations necessary to comply with congressional reporting under 
10 U.S.C. 1130.
    (3) To be fully effective, an award must be timely. Undue delay in 
submitting a recommendation may preclude its consideration. It is 
highly desirable that a recommendation be placed in military channels 
and acted upon as quickly as possible. If circumstances preclude 
submission of a completely documented recommendation, it is best to 
submit it as soon as possible and note that additional data will be 
submitted later. However, to ensure prompt recognition, interim awards 
should be considered and are encouraged as addressed above.

[[Page 17283]]

    (4) No military decoration, except the Purple Heart and exceptions 
for decorations approved under 10 U.S.C. 1130, will be awarded more 
than 3 years after the act or period of service to be honored.
    (5) These time limitations do not apply to retroactive and 
conversion awards made in confirmation of recognition of previously 
issued orders, letters, or certificates or in exchange of decorations 
hereinafter authorized.
    (6) In cases where it can be conclusively proven that formal 
submission of a recommendation for award was not made within the time 
limitations indicated above, because either the person recommending or 
the person being recommended was in a prisoner of war (POW), missing in 
action (MIA) or in a medically incapacitated status, award of the 
Silver Star or lesser decorations may be approved without regard to 
elapsed time since the act, achievement, or service occurred, that is 
to be honored.
    (7) If the Secretary of the Army determines that a statement 
setting forth the distinguished act, achievement, or service, and a 
recommendation for official recommendation recognition was made and 
supported by sufficient evidence within 2 years after the distinguished 
service, and that no award was made because the statement was lost, or 
through inadvertence the recommendation was not acted upon; he or she 
may, within 2 years after the date of the determination, award any 
appropriate military decoration. In each case, the following will be 
provided:
    (i) Conclusive evidence of the formal submission of the 
recommendation into military channels.
    (ii) Conclusive evidence of the loss of the recommendation or the 
failure to act on the recommendation through inadvertence.
    (iii) A copy of the original recommendation, or its substantive 
equivalent. As a minimum, the recommendation should be accompanied by 
statements, certificates, or affidavits corroborating the events or 
services involved. It is emphasized that the proponent must provide 
Commander, USA HRC (see Sec.  578.3(c)), with adequate information for 
Secretarial evaluation of the deed or service to determine if an award 
is to be made. The person signing a reconstructed award recommendation 
must be identified clearly in terms of his or her official relationship 
to the intended recipient at the time of the act or during the period 
of service to be recognized.
    (h) U.S. awards to foreign military personnel. (1) It is the 
Department of Defense (DOD) policy to recognize individual acts of 
heroism, extraordinary achievement or meritorious achievement on the 
part of service members of friendly foreign nations when such acts have 
been of significant benefit to the United States or materially 
contributed to the successful prosecution of a military campaign by 
Armed Forces of the United States. Such acts or achievement shall be 
recognized through the award of an individual U.S. decoration.
    (2) U.S. campaign and service medals shall not be awarded to 
members of foreign military establishments.
    (3) Foreign military personnel in ranks comparable to the grade of 
0-6 and below, at the time the act was performed and at the time the 
decoration is presented, may be awarded the following decorations: 
Silver Star; Distinguished Flying Cross; Bronze Star Medal; or the Air 
Medal for valorous acts in actual combat in direct support of military 
operation; the Soldier's Medal, for heroic acts in direct support of 
operations, but not involving actual combat; and the Legion of Merit 
(see Sec.  578.13 for the Legion of Merit to foreign military 
personnel).
    (i) Announcement of awards. (1) Decorations and the Army Good 
Conduct Medal.
    (i) Awards made by the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the 
Secretary of the Army will be announced in DA General Orders (DAGO).
    (ii) Awards of decorations and the Army Good Conduct Medal made by 
principal HQDA officials will be announced in permanent orders.
    (iii) Awards of decorations and the Army Good Conduct Medal made 
according to delegated authority will be announced in permanent orders 
by the commanders authorized to make the awards.
    (2) Service medals and service ribbons. Service medals and service 
ribbons are administratively awarded to individuals who meet the 
qualifying criteria. Orders are not required.
    (3) Badges. Permanent awards of badges, except basic marksmanship 
qualification badges, identification badges, and the Physical Fitness 
Badge will be announced in permanent orders by commanders authorized to 
make the award or permanent orders of HQDA.
    (j) Engraving of awards. The grade, name, and organization of the 
awardee are engraved on the reverse of the Medal of Honor. The name 
only of the awardee is engraved on the reverse side of every other 
decoration, the POW Medal and the Army Good Conduct Medal. Normally 
engraving will be accomplished prior to presentation. When this is 
impracticable, the awardee will be informed that he or she may mail the 
decoration or Army Good Conduct Medal to the Commander, U.S. Army 
TACOM, Clothing and Heraldry Product Support Integration Directorate 
(PSID), P.O. Box 57997, Philadelphia, PA 19111-7997, for engraving at 
Government expense.
    (k) Presentation of decorations. (1) The Medal of Honor is usually 
presented to living awardees by the President of the United States at 
the White House. Posthumous presentation to the next of kin normally is 
made in Washington, DC by the President or his or her personal 
representative.
    (2) Other U.S. military decorations will be presented with an 
appropriate air of formality and with fitting ceremony.
    (3) Foreign decorations will not be presented by members of the 
U.S. Army to designated recipients whether awardees or next of kin.
    (4) Conversion awards, service medals, and service ribbons usually 
are not presented with formal ceremony. However, such presentation may 
be made at the discretion of the local commander.
    (5) Whenever practical, badges will be presented to military 
personnel in a formal ceremony as provided in Field Manual (FM) 3-21.5. 
Presentations should be made as promptly as practical following 
announcement of awards, and when possible, in the presence of the 
troops with whom the recipients were serving at the time of the 
qualification.
    (6) Presentation of the Army Good Conduct Medal to military 
personnel may be made at troop formations. (See FM 3-21.5.) Ceremonies 
will not be conducted to present the Army Good Conduct Medal to former 
military personnel or next of kin.
    (7) The Army Lapel Button will be formally presented at troop 
formations or other suitable ceremonies. The U.S. Army Retired Lapel 
Button will be presented at an appropriate ceremony prior to their 
departure for retirement. These buttons may be presented to a 
separating soldier at the same time as the Army Good Conduct Medal and 
any other approved decoration.
    (l) Act of presentation. In the act of presentation, a decoration 
may be pinned on the clothing of the awardee whether in uniform or 
civilian clothing or on the next-of-kin in the case of a presentation 
following the recipient's death; however, this will not be construed as 
authority to wear the decoration for any person other than the 
individual honored. As an alternative to pinning the decoration, 
especially on next-of-kin, it may be handed to the

[[Page 17284]]

recipient in an opened decoration container.


Sec.  578.9  Medal of Honor.

    (a) Criteria. The Medal of Honor (10 U.S.C. 3741) was established 
by Joint Resolution of Congress, July 12, 1962 (amended by Act of July 
9, 1918 and Act of July 25, 1963) is awarded by the President in the 
name of Congress to a person who, while a member of the Army, 
distinguished himself or herself conspicuously by gallantry and 
intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty 
while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States; while 
engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing 
foreign force; or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in 
an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United 
States is not a belligerent party. The deed performed must have been 
one of personal bravery or self-sacrifice so conspicuous as to clearly 
distinguish the individual above his comrades and must have involved 
risk of life. Incontestable proof of the performance of the service 
will be exacted and each recommendation for the award of this 
decoration will be considered on the standard of extraordinary merit. 
Eligibility is limited to members of the Army of the United States in 
active Federal military service.
    (b) Description. A gold-finished bronze star, one point down, 1\9/
16\ inches in diameter with rays terminating in trefoils, surrounded by 
a laurel wreath in green enamel, suspended by two links from a bar 
bearing the inscription ``Valor'' and surmounted by an eagle grasping 
laurel leaves in one claw and arrows in the other. In the center of the 
star is the head of Minerva surrounded by the inscription ``United 
States of America.'' Each ray of the star bears an oak leaf in green 
enamel. On the reverse of the bar are stamped the words ``The Congress 
To.'' The medal is suspended by a hook to a ring fastened behind the 
eagle. The hook is attached to a light-blue moired silk neckband, 1\3/
16\ inches in width and 21\3/4\ inches in length, behind a square pad 
in the center made of the ribbon with the corners turned in. On the 
ribbon bar are 13 white stars arranged in the form of a triple chevron, 
consisting of two chevrons of 5 stars and one chevron of 3 stars. A 
hexagonal rosette of light-blue ribbon \1/2\ inch circumscribing 
diameter, with a fan-shaped ribbon insert showing white stars, is 
included for wear on civilian clothing.
    (c) Medal of Honor Roll. The Medal of Honor Roll was established by 
Act of Congress, April 27, 1916, as amended by 38 U.S.C. 1562. It 
provides that each Medal of Honor awardee may have his or her name 
entered on the Medal of Honor Roll. Each person whose name is placed on 
the Medal of Honor Roll is certified to the Veterans Administration as 
being entitled to receive a special pension of $1000 per month for 
life, if the person desires. Payment will be made by the Veterans 
Administration beginning as of the date of application thereof (38 
U.S.C. 1562). The payment of this special pension is in addition to, 
and does not deprive the pensioner of any other pension, benefit, 
right, or privilege to which he or she is or may thereafter be 
entitled. The awardee will submit a DD Form 1369 (Application for 
Enrollment on the Medal of Honor Roll and for the Pension Authorized by 
the Act of Congress) to have his or her name placed on the Medal of 
Honor Roll and to receive the special pension. The application will 
bear the full personal signature of the awardee, or in cases where the 
awardee cannot sign due to disability or incapacity, the signature of 
the awardee's legally designated representative, and be forwarded to 
Commander, USA HRC (see Sec.  578.3(c)). Applicant will receive a DD 
Form 1370A (Certificate of Enrollment on the Medal of Honor Roll).
    (d) Additional benefits. (1) Supplemental uniform allowance. 
Enlisted recipients of the Medal of Honor are entitled to a 
supplemental uniform allowance. (See AR 700-84.)
    (2) Air transportation for Medal of Honor awardees. (See DOD 
Regulation 4515.13-R.)
    (3) Commissary privileges for Medal of Honor recipients and their 
eligible family members. (See AR 600-8-14.)
    (4) Identification cards for Medal of Honor recipients and their 
eligible family members. (See AR 600-8-14.)
    (5) Admission to U.S. Service Academies. Children of Medal of Honor 
awardees, otherwise qualified, are not subject to quota requirements 
for admission to any of the U.S. Service Academies. (See U.S. Service 
Academies annual catalogs.)
    (6) Exchange privileges for Medal of Honor recipients and their 
eligible family members. (See AR 600-8-14.)
    (7) Burial honors for Medal of Honor recipients are identical to 
those who become deceased while on active duty. (See AR 600-8-1 and AR 
600-25.)


Sec.  578.10  Distinguished Service Cross.

    (a) Criteria. The Distinguished Service Cross was established by 
Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by Act of July 25, 1963), 10 
U.S.C. 3742. It is awarded to a person who, while serving in any 
capacity with the Army, distinguishes himself or herself by 
extraordinary heroism not justifying the award of a Medal of Honor 
while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States; while 
engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing 
force, or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an 
armed conflict against an opposing Armed Force in which the United 
States is not a belligerent party. The act or acts of heroism must have 
been so notable and have involved risk of life so extraordinary as to 
set the individual apart from his comrades.
    (b) Description. A cross of bronze 2 inches in height and 1\13/16\ 
inches in width with an eagle on the center and a scroll below the 
eagle bearing the inscription ``For Valor.'' On the reverse, the center 
of the cross is circled by a wreath. The cross is suspended by a ring 
from moired silk ribbon, 1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in 
width, composed of a band of red (\1/8\-inch), white (\1/16\-inch), 
blue (1-inch), white (\1/16\-inch), and red (\1/8\-inch). (Sec. 3742, 
70A Stat. 215; 10 U.S.C. 3742)


Sec.  578.11  Distinguished Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. (1) The Distinguished Service Medal was established 
by Act of Congress on July 9, 1918 (10 U.S.C. 3743). It is awarded to 
any person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Army, has 
distinguished himself or herself by exceptionally meritorious service 
to the Government in a duty of great responsibility. The performance 
must be such as to merit recognition for service which is clearly 
exceptional. Exceptional performance of normal duty will not alone 
justify an award of this decoration.
    (2) For service not related to actual war the term ``duty of great 
responsibility'' applies to a narrower range of positions than in time 
of war and requires evidence of conspicuously significant achievement. 
However, justification of the award may accrue by virtue of 
exceptionally meritorious service in a succession of high positions of 
great importance.
    (3) Awards may be made to persons other than members of the Armed 
Forces of the United States for wartime services only, and then only 
under exceptional circumstances with the express approval of the 
President, in each case.
    (b) Description. The coat of arms of the United States in bronze 
surrounded by a circle of dark-blue enamel 1\1/2\ inches in diameter, 
bearing the inscription ``For Distinguished Service MCMXVIII.'' On the 
reverse, a blank scroll upon a trophy of flags and

[[Page 17285]]

weapons. The medal is suspended by a bar from a moired silk ribbon, 
1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in width, composed of a bank 
of scarlet (\5/8\-inch), a stripe of dark-blue (\1/16\-inch), a band of 
white (\5/8\-inch), a stripe of dark-blue (\1/16\-inch), and a band of 
scarlet (\5/16\-inch). (Sec. 3743, 70A Stat. 216; 10 U.S.C. 3743).


Sec.  578.12  Silver Star.

    (a) Criteria. The Silver Star was established by Act of Congress 
July 9, 1918 (amended by Act of July 25, 1963, 10 U.S.C. 3746). It is 
awarded to a person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. 
Army, is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United 
States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an 
opposing foreign force, or while serving with friendly foreign forces 
engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which 
the United States is not a belligerent party. The required gallantry, 
while of lesser degree than that required for the Distinguished Service 
Cross, must nevertheless have been performed with marked distinction. 
It is also awarded upon letter application to Commander, USA HRC (see 
Sec.  578.3(c)), to those individuals who, while serving in any 
capacity with the U.S. Army, received a citation for gallantry in 
action in World War I published in orders issued by a headquarters 
commanded by a general officer.
    (b) Description. A bronze star 1\1/2\ inches in circumscribing 
diameter. In the center thereof is a \3/16\-inch diameter raised silver 
star, the center lines of all rays of both stars coinciding. The 
reverse has the inscription ``For Gallantry in Action.'' The star is 
suspended by a rectangular-shaped metal loop with corners rounded from 
a moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in 
width, composed of stripes of blue (\3/32\-inch), white (\3/64\-inch), 
blue (\7/32\-inch), white (\7/32\-inch), red (\7/32\-inch), white (\7/
32\-inch), blue (\7/32\-inch), white (\3/64\-inch), and blue (\3/32\-
inch). (Sec. 3746, 70A Stat. 216; 10 U.S.C. 3746)


Sec.  578.13  Legion of Merit.

    The Legion of Merit was established by Act of Congress July 20, 
1942 (10 U.S.C. 1121). It is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces 
of the United States or of a friendly foreign nation who has 
distinguished himself or herself by exceptionally meritorious conduct 
in the performance of outstanding services and achievement.
    (a) Criteria for members of Armed Forces of the United States. The 
performance must have been such as to merit recognition of key 
individuals for service rendered in a clearly exceptional manner. 
Performance of duties normal to the grade, branch, specialty, or 
assignment, and experience of an individual is not an adequate basis 
for this award.
    (b) For service not related to actual war, the term ``key 
individuals'' applies to a narrower range of positions than in time of 
war and requires evidence of significant achievement. In peacetime, 
service should be in the nature of a special requirement or of an 
extremely difficult duty performed in an unprecedented and clearly 
exceptional manner. However, justification of the award may accrue by 
virtue of exceptionally meritorious service in a succession of 
important positions.
    (c) Awards will be made without reference to degree.
    (d) Criteria for members of the Armed Forces of foreign nations. 
The LM in the degrees described below, may be awarded to foreign 
military personnel who distinguish themselves by ``exceptional 
meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding service'' to the 
United States in accordance with Executive Order (E.O.) 9260.
    (e) The LM awarded to members of the Armed Forces of foreign 
nations is awarded in the following degrees:
    (1) Chief Commander: A domed five-pointed American white star 
plaque of heraldic form bordered in purplish-red enamel 2\15/16\ inches 
circumscribing diameter with 13 white stars on a blue field emerging 
from a circle of clouds; backing the star, a laurel wreath with 
pierced, crossed arrows pointing outward between each arm of the star 
and the wreath. The reverse is engraved with the words ``United States 
of America.''
    (2) Commander: A five-pointed American white star of heraldic form 
bordered in purplish-red enamel 2\1/4\-inches circumscribing diameter 
with 13 white stars on a blue field emerging from a circle of clouds; 
backing the star, a laurel wreath with pierced, crossed arrows pointing 
outward between each arm of the star and the wreath. A bronze wreath 
connects an oval suspension ring to a neck ribbon. The reverse of the 
five-pointed star is enameled in white bordered in purplish-red enamel; 
in the center is a disk surrounded by the words ``Annuit Coeptis'' and 
``MDCCLXXXII,'' and on the scroll are the words ``United States of 
America.'' The moired silk neck ribbon is 21\1/4\ inches in length and 
1\15/16\ inches in width composed of a bank of purplish-red (1\13/16\-
inches) with edges of white (\1/16\-inch).
    (3) Officer: A five-pointed American white star of heraldic form 
bordered in purplish-red enamel 1\7/8\-inches circumscribing diameter 
with 13 white stars on a blue field emerging from a circle of clouds; 
backing the star, a laurel wreath with modeled, crossed arrows pointing 
outward between each arm of the star and the wreath, and an all-bronze 
device of the same design as the pendant \3/4\ inch in diameter on the 
center of the suspension ribbon. On the reverse is a disk surrounded by 
the words ``Annuit Coeptis'' and ``MDCCLXXXII,'' and on the scroll are 
the words ``United States of America.'' The pendant is suspended by a 
moired silk ribbon 1\7/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in width, 
composed of a bank of purplish-red (1\1/4\-inches) with edges of white 
(\1/16\-inch).
    (4) Legionnaire: Same as prescribed in paragraph (e)(3) of this 
section, except the all-bronze device is not worn on the ribbon. (Sec. 
1121, 70A Stat. 88; 10 U.S.C. 1121, E.O. 9260, October 29, 1942, 7 FR 
8819, 3 CFR, 1943 Cum. Supp.)


Sec.  578.14  Distinguished Flying Cross.

    (a) Criteria. The Distinguished Flying Cross was established by Act 
of Congress July 2, 1926, (10 U.S.C. 3749). It is awarded to any person 
who, while serving in any capacity with the Army of the United States, 
distinguished himself or herself by heroism or extraordinary 
achievement while participating in aerial flight. The performance of 
the act of heroism must be evidenced by voluntary action above and 
beyond the call of duty. The extraordinary achievement must have 
resulted in an accomplishment so exceptional and outstanding as to 
clearly set the individual apart from his comrades, or from other 
persons in similar circumstances. Awards will be made only to recognize 
single acts of heroism or extraordinary achievement and will not be 
made in recognition of sustained operational activities against an 
armed enemy.
    (b) Description. On a bronze 1\1/2\-inch cross pattee, a four-
bladed propeller 1\11/16\ inches across the blades; in the reentrant 
angles, rays forming a 1-inch square. The cross is suspended by a 
plain, straight link from a moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length 
and 1\3/8\ inches in width, composed of stripes of blue (\7/64\-inch), 
white (\9/64\-inch), blue (\11/32\-inch), white (\3/64\-inch), red (\3/
32\-inch), white (\3/64\-inch), blue (\11/32\-inch), white (\9/64\-
inch), and blue (\7/64\-inch). (Sec. 3749, 70A Stat. 217; 10 U.S.C. 
3749, E.O. 4601, March 1, 1927, as amended by E.O. 7786, January 8, 
1938, 3 FR 39.)

[[Page 17286]]

Sec.  578.15  Soldier's Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Soldier's Medal was established by Act of 
Congress July 2, 1926 (10 U.S.C. 3750). It is awarded to any person of 
the Armed Forces of the United States or of a friendly foreign nation 
who, while serving in any capacity with the Army of the United States, 
including Reserve Component soldiers not serving in a duty status, as 
defined in 10 U.S.C. 101(d), at the time of the heroic act, who 
distinguished himself or herself by heroism not involving actual 
conflict with an enemy. The same degree of heroism is required as that 
for an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. The performance must 
have involved personal hazard or danger and the voluntary risk of life 
under conditions not involving conflict with an armed enemy. Awards 
will not be made solely on the basis of having saved a life.
    (b) Description. On a 1\3/8\-inch bronze octagon, an eagle 
displayed, standing on a fasces, between two groups of stars of six and 
seven, above the group of six a spray of leaves. On the reverse is a 
shield paly of 13 pieces on the chief, the letters ``U.S.'' supported 
by sprays of laurel and oak, around the upper edge the inscription 
``Soldier's Medal,'' and across the face the words ``For Valor.'' The 
medal is suspended by a rectangular-shaped metal loop with corners 
rounded from a moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ 
inches in width, composed of two outside stripes of blue (\3/8\-inch), 
the center containing 13 white and red stripes of equal width (7 white 
and 6 red). (Sec. 3750, 70A Stat. 217; 10 U.S.C. 3750.)


Sec.  578.16  Bronze Star Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Bronze Star Medal was established by Executive 
Order 9419, February 4, 1944 (superseded by E.O. 11046, August 24, 1962 
and amended by 10 U.S.C. 1133). It is awarded to any person who, while 
serving in any capacity in or with the Army of the United States after 
December 7, 1941, distinguished himself or herself by heroic or 
meritorious achievement or service, not involving participation in 
aerial flight, in connection with military operations against an armed 
enemy; or while engaged in military operations involving conflict with 
an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent 
party. Per 10 U.S.C. 1133, award of the Bronze Star Medal is limited to 
members of the Armed Forces of the United States who receive imminent 
danger pay.
    (1) Heroism. Awards may be made for acts of heroism, performed 
under circumstances described above, which are of lesser degree than 
required for the award of the Silver Star.
    (2) Meritorious achievement and service. Awards may be made to 
recognize single acts of merit and meritorious service. The lesser 
degree than that required for the award of the LM, must nevertheless 
have been meritorious and accomplished with distinction.
    (3) Awards may be made, by letter application to NPRC, 9700 Page 
Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100 (Soldiers who retired or were 
discharged after October 1, 2002 should send their requests to the 
Commander, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, St. Louis, ATTN: AHRC-CC-
B, 1 Reserve Way, St. Louis, MO 63132-5200), enclosing documentary 
evidence, if possible, to each member of the Armed Forces of the United 
States who, after December 6,1941, has been cited in orders or awarded 
a certificate for exemplary conduct in ground combat against an armed 
enemy between December 7, 1941 and September 2, 1945, inclusive, or 
whose meritorious achievement has been otherwise confirmed by documents 
executed prior to July 1, 1947. For this purpose, an award of the 
Combat Infantryman Badge or Medical Badge is considered as a citation 
in orders. Documents executed since August 4, 1944 in connection with 
recommendations for the award of decorations of higher degree than the 
Bronze Star Medal will not be used to establish a basis for the award 
under this paragraph.
    (4) Upon letter application, award of the Bronze Star Medal may be 
made to eligible soldiers who participated in the Philippine Islands 
Campaign between December 7, 1941 to May 10, 1942. Performance of duty 
must have been on the island of Luzon or the Harbor Defenses in 
Corregidor and Bataan. Only soldiers who were awarded the Distinguished 
Unit Citation (redesignated the Presidential Unit Citation on November 
3, 1966) may be awarded this decoration. Letter application should be 
sent to NPRC (see paragraph (a)(3) of this section).
    (b) Description. A bronze star 1\1/2\ inches in circumscribing 
diameter. In the center thereof is a \3/16\-inch diameter raised bronze 
star, the center line of all rays of both stars coinciding. The reverse 
has the inscription ``Heroic or Meritorious Achievement.'' The star is 
suspended by a rectangular-shaped loop with corners rounded from a 
moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in width, 
composed of stripes of white (\1/32\-inch), red (\9/16\-inch), white 
(\1/32\-inch), blue (\1/8\-inch), white (\1/32\-inch), red (\9/16\-
inch), and white (\1/32\-inch). A bronze block letter ``V'' \1/4\ inch 
in height with serifs at the top of the members is worn on the 
suspension and service ribbons of the Bronze Star Medal to denote an 
award made for heroism (valor). Not more than one ``V'' device will be 
worn. When one or more oak-leaf clusters appear on the same ribbon the 
``V'' device is worn on the wearer's right. (E.O. 9419, February 4, 
1944, 9 FR 1495)


Sec.  578.17  Purple Heart.

    (a) Criteria. The Purple Heart was established by General George 
Washington at Newburgh, New York, on August 7, 1782, during the 
Revolutionary War. It was reestablished by the President of the United 
States per War Department General Orders (WDGO) 3, 1932 and is 
currently awarded pursuant to Executive Order 11016, April 25, 1962; 
Executive Order 12464, February 23, 1984; Public Law 98-525, October 
19, 1984. Public Law 103-160, November 30, 1993; Public Law 104-106, 
February 10, 1996; and Public Law 105-85, November 18, 1997. It is 
awarded in the name of the President of the United States to any member 
of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving under 
competent authority in any capacity with one of the U.S. Armed Services 
after April 5, 1917 who has been wounded or killed, or who has died or 
may hereafter die after being wounded:
    (1) In any action against an enemy of the United States.
    (2) In any action with an opposing armed force of a foreign country 
in which the Armed Forces of the United States are or have been 
engaged.
    (3) While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed 
conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is 
not a belligerent party.
    (4) As a result of an act of any such enemy of opposing armed 
forces.
    (5) As the result of an act of any hostile foreign force.
    (6) After March 28, 1973, as a result of an international terrorist 
attack against the United States or a foreign nation friendly to the 
United States, recognized as such an attack by the Secretary of Army, 
or jointly by the Secretaries of the separate armed services concerned 
if persons from more than one service are wounded in the attack.
    (7) After March 28, 1973, as a result of military operations while 
serving outside the territory of the United States as part of a 
peacekeeping force.
    (b) While clearly an individual decoration, the Purple Heart 
differs from

[[Page 17287]]

all other decorations in that an individual is not ``recommended'' for 
the decoration; rather he or she is entitled to it upon meeting 
specific criteria.
    (1) A Purple Heart is authorized for the first wound suffered under 
conditions indicated above, but for each subsequent award an Oak Leaf 
Cluster will be awarded to be worn on the medal or ribbon. Not more 
than one award will be made for more than one wound or injury received 
at the same instant or from the same missile, force, explosion, or 
agent.
    (2) A wound is defined as an injury to any part of the body from an 
outside force or agent sustained under one or more of the conditions 
listed above. A physical lesion is not required, however, the wound for 
which the award is made must have required treatment by a medical 
officer and records of medical treatment for wounds or injuries 
received in action must have been made a matter of official record.
    (3) When contemplating an award of this decoration, the key issue 
that commanders must take into consideration is the degree to which the 
enemy caused the injury. The fact that the proposed recipient was 
participating in direct or indirect combat operations is a necessary 
prerequisite, but is not sole justification for award.
    (4) Examples of enemy-related injuries which clearly justify award 
of the Purple Heart are as follows:
    (i) Injury caused by enemy bullet, shrapnel, or other projectile 
created by enemy action.
    (ii) Injury caused by enemy placed mine or trap.
    (iii) Injury caused by enemy released chemical, biological, or 
nuclear agent.
    (iv) Injury caused by vehicle or aircraft accident resulting from 
enemy fire.
    (v) Concussion injuries caused as a result of enemy generated 
explosions.
    (5) Examples of injuries or wounds which clearly do not qualify for 
award of the Purple Heart are as follows:
    (i) Frostbite or trench foot injuries.
    (ii) Heat stroke.
    (iii) Food poisoning not caused by enemy agents.
    (iv) Chemical, biological, or nuclear agents not released by the 
enemy.
    (v) Battle fatigue.
    (vi) Disease not directly caused by enemy agents.
    (vii) Accidents, to include explosive, aircraft, vehicular, and 
other accidental wounding not related to or caused by enemy action.
    (viii) Self-inflicted wounds, except when in the heat of battle, 
and not involving gross negligence.
    (ix) Post traumatic stress disorders.
    (x) Jump injuries not caused by enemy action.
    (6) It is not intended that such a strict interpretation of the 
requirement for the wound or injury to be caused by direct result of 
hostile action be taken that it would preclude the award being made to 
deserving personnel. Commanders must also take into consideration the 
circumstances surrounding an injury, even if it appears to meet the 
criteria. Note the following examples:
    (i) In a case such as an individual injured while making a 
parachute landing from an aircraft that had been brought down by enemy 
fire; or, an individual injured as a result of a vehicle accident 
caused by enemy fire, the decision will be made in favor of the 
individual and the award will be made.
    (ii) Individuals injured as a result of their own negligence; for 
example, driving or walking through an unauthorized area known to have 
been mined or placed off limits or searching for or picking up 
unexploded munitions as war souvenirs, will not be awarded the Purple 
Heart as they clearly were not injured as a result of enemy action, but 
rather by their own negligence.
    (7) Members killed or wounded in action by friendly fire, 10 U.S.C. 
1129.
    (i) For purposes of award of the Purple Heart, the Secretary of the 
Army shall treat a member of the Armed Forces described in paragraph 
(a) of this section in the same manner as a member who is killed or 
wounded in action as the result of an act of an enemy of the United 
States.
    (ii) A member described in this subsection is a member who is 
killed or wounded in action by weapon fire while directly engaged in 
armed conflict, other than as the result of an act of an enemy of the 
United States, unless (in the case of a wound) the wound is the result 
of willful misconduct of the member.
    (iii) This section applies to members of the Armed Forces who are 
killed or wounded on or after December 7, 1941. In the case of a member 
killed or wounded, as described in paragraph (b) of this section, on or 
after December 7, 1941 and before November 30, 1993, the Secretary of 
the Army shall award the Purple Heart under provisions of paragraph (a) 
of this section in each case which is known to the Secretary before 
such date or for which an application is made to the Secretary in such 
manner as the Secretary requires.
    (c) A Purple Heart will be issued to the next of kin of each person 
entitled to a posthumous award. Issue will be made automatically by the 
CG, USA HRC, upon receiving a report of death indicating entitlement.
    (d) Upon written application to NPRC (see Sec.  578.16(a)(3)) award 
may be made to any member of the Army, who during World War I, was 
awarded a Meritorious Service Citation Certificate signed by the 
Commander in Chief, American Expeditionary Forces, or who was 
authorized to wear wound chevrons. Posthumous awards to personnel who 
were killed or died of wounds after April 5, 1917 will be made to the 
appropriate next of kin upon application to the CG, USA HRC (see Sec.  
578.3(c) for address).
    (e) Any member of the Army who was awarded the Purple Heart for 
meritorious achievement or service, as opposed to wounds received in 
action, between December 7, 1941 and September 22, 1943, may apply for 
award of an appropriate decoration instead of the Purple Heart.
    (f) For those who became Prisoners of War during World War II, the 
Korean War and after April 25, 1962, the Purple Heart will be awarded 
to individuals wounded while prisoners of foreign forces, upon 
submission by the individual to the Department of the U.S. Army of an 
affidavit that is supported by a statement from a witness, if this is 
possible. Documentation and inquiries should be directed to Commander, 
USA HRC (see Sec.  578.3(c) for address).
    (g) Any member of the U.S. Army who believes that he or she is 
eligible for the Purple Heart, but through unusual circumstances no 
award was made, may submit an application through military channels, to 
Commander, USA HRC (see Sec.  578.3(c) for address). Application will 
include complete documentation, to include evidence of medical 
treatment, pertaining to the wound.
    (h) Description. On a purple heart within a bronze border, a 
profile head in relief of General George Washington in military 
uniform. Above the heart is a shield of General Washington's coat of 
arms between two sprays of leaves in green enamel. On the reserve below 
the shield and leaves without enamel is a raised bronze heart with the 
inscription ``For Military Merit.'' The entire device is 1\11/16\ 
inches in length. The medal is suspended by a rectangular-shaped loop 
with corners rounded from a moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in length 
and 1\3/8\ inches in width consisting of a purple (pansy) center with 
white edges (\1/8\-inch).


Sec.  578.18  Meritorious Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Meritorious Service Medal was established by 
Executive Order 11448, January 16, 1969 as amended by Executive Order 
12312, July 2, 1981. It is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of 
the

[[Page 17288]]

United States or to any member of the Armed Forces of a friendly 
foreign nation who, has distinguished himself or herself by outstanding 
meritorious achievement or service under the following circumstances:
    (1) After January 16, 1969, for meritorious service or achievement 
while serving in a non-combat area.
    (2) On or after September 11, 2001, for outstanding non-combat 
meritorious achievement or service in a non-combat or combat area.
    (b) Description. A Bronze medal, 1\1/2\ inches in diameter overall, 
consisting of six rays issuant from the upper three points of a five-
pointed star with beveled edges and containing two smaller stars 
defined by incised outlines; in front of the lower part of the star an 
eagle with wings upraised standing upon two upward curving branches of 
laurel tied with a ribbon between the feet of the eagle. The reverse 
has the encircled inscriptions ``UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'' and 
``MERITORIOUS SERVICE''. The moired ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and 
consists of the following stripes: \1/8\ inch Crimson 67112; \1/4\ inch 
White 67101; center \5/8\ inch Crimson; \1/4\ inch White; and \1/8\ 
inch Crimson.


Sec.  578.19  Air Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Air Medal was established by Executive Order 
9158, May 11, 1942 as amended by Executive Order 9242-A, September 11, 
1942. It is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity in 
or with the U.S. Army, has distinguished himself or herself by 
meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. Awards 
may be made to recognize single acts of merit or heroism, or for 
meritorious service as described.
    (1) Awards may be made for acts of heroism in connection with 
military operations against an armed enemy or while engaged in military 
operations involving conflict with an opposing armed force in which the 
United States is not a belligerent party, which are of a lesser degree 
than required for award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
    (2) Awards may be made for single acts of meritorious achievement, 
involving superior airmanship, which are of a lesser degree than 
required for award of the Distinguished Flying Cross, but nevertheless 
were accomplished with distinction beyond that normally expected.
    (3) Awards for meritorious service may be made for sustained 
distinction in the performance of duties involving regular and frequent 
participation in aerial flight for a period of at least 6 months. In 
this regard, accumulation of a specified number of hours and missions 
will not serve as the basis for award of the Air Medal. Criteria in 
Sec.  578.19(a)(1), concerning conditions of conflict are applicable to 
award of the Air Medal for meritorious service.
    (4) Award of the Air Medal is primarily intended to recognize those 
personnel who are on current crewmember or non-crewmember flying status 
which requires them to participate in aerial flight on a regular and 
frequent basis in the performance of their primary duties. However, it 
may also be awarded to certain other individuals whose combat duties 
require regular and frequent flying in other than a passenger status, 
or individuals who perform a particularly noteworthy act while 
performing the function of a crewmember, but who are not on flying 
status as prescribed in AR 600-106. These individuals must make a 
discernible contribution to the operational land combat mission or to 
the mission of the aircraft in flight. Examples of personnel whose 
combat duties require them to fly include those in the attack elements 
of units involved in air-land assaults against an armed enemy and those 
directly involved in airborne command and control of combat operations. 
Involvement in such activities, normally at the brigade/group level and 
below, serves only to establish eligibility for award of the Air Medal; 
the degree of heroism, meritorious achievement or exemplary service 
determines who should receive the award. Awards will not be made to 
individuals who use air transportation solely for the purpose of moving 
from point to point in a combat zone.
    (5) Numerals, starting with 2 will be used to denote second and 
subsequent awards of the Air Medal.
    (b) Description. A bronze compass rose 1\11/16\-inches 
circumscribing diameter suspended by the pointer and charged with an 
eagle volant carrying two lightning flashes in its talons. The points 
of the compass rose on the reverse are modeled with the central portion 
plain. The medal is suspended from a moired silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches 
in length and 1\3/8\ inches in width, composed of a band of ultramarine 
blue (\1/8\-inch), a band of golden orange (\1/4\-inch), a band of 
ultramarine blue (\5/8\-inch), a band of golden orange (\1/4\-inch), 
and a band of ultramarine blue (\1/8\-inch), by a ring engaging the 
pointer. (E.O. 9158, May 11, 1942, 7 FR 3541, as amended by E.O. 9242A, 
September 11, 1942, 7 FR 7874).


Sec.  578.20  Army Commendation Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) was established 
by War Department (WD) Circular 377, on December 18, 1945 (amended in 
DAGO 10, March 31, 1960). It is awarded to any members of the Armed 
Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the 
Army after December 6, 1941, distinguishes himself or herself by an act 
of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service. Award 
may be made to a member of the Armed Forces of a friendly foreign 
nation who, after June 1, 1962, distinguishes himself or herself by an 
act of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service, 
which has been of mutual benefit to a friendly nation and the United 
States.
    (1) Awards of the ARCOM may be made for acts of valor performed 
under circumstances described above which are of lesser degree than 
required for award of the Bronze Star Medal. These acts may involve 
aerial flight.
    (2) An award of the ARCOM may be made for acts of non-combat 
related heroism, which do not meet the requirements for an award of the 
Soldier's Medal.
    (3) The ARCOM will not be awarded to general officers.
    (4) Awards of the ARCOM may be made on letter application to NPRC 
(see Sec.  578.16(a)(3) for address), to any individual commended after 
December 6, 1941 and before January 1, 1946 in a letter, certificate, 
or order of commendation, as distinguished from letter of appreciation, 
signed by an officer in the grade or position of a major general or 
higher. Awards of the Army Commendation Ribbon and of the Commendation 
Ribbon with Metal Pendant are re-designated by DAGO 10, March 31, 1960, 
as awards of the ARCOM, without amendments of certificates or of orders 
previously issued.
    (5) The Commander, Eighth U.S. Army is authorized to award the Army 
Commendation Medal for meritorious service to Korean Augmentation to 
U.S. Army (KATUSA) personnel.
    (b) Description. On a 1\3/8\-inch bronze hexagon, one point up, an 
American bald eagle with wings displayed horizontally grasping three 
crossed arrows and bearing on its breast a shield paly of 13 pieces and 
a chief. On the reverse between the words ``For Military'' and 
``Merit'' a panel, all above a sprig of laurel. A moired silk ribbon 
1\3/8\ inches in length and 1\3/8\ inches in width, composed of stripes 
of white (\3/32\-inch), green (\25/64\-inch), white (\1/32\-inch), 
green (\1/16\-inch), white (\1/32\-inch), green (\1/16\-inch), white 
(\1/32\-inch), green (\1/16\-inch), white (\1/32\-inch), green (\1/16\-
inch), white (\1/32\-inch), green (\25/64\-inch), and white (\3/32\-
inch).

[[Page 17289]]

Sec.  578.21  Army Achievement Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Army Achievement Medal (AAM) was established by 
the Secretary of the Army, April 10, 1981. It is awarded to any member 
of the Armed Forces of the United States, or to any member of the Armed 
Forces of a friendly foreign nation, who while serving in any capacity 
with the Army distinguished himself or herself by meritorious service 
or achievement of a lesser degree than required for award of the Army 
Commendation Medal under the following circumstances:
    (1) After August 1, 1981, for meritorious service or achievement 
while serving in a non-combat area.
    (2) On or after September 11, 2001, for non-combat meritorious 
achievement or service.
    (b) The AAM will not be awarded to general officers.
    (c) Description. A Bronze octagonal medal, 1\1/2\ inches in 
diameter, with one angle at the top centered. On the obverse is a 
design consisting of the elements of the DA plaque and the date 
``1775'' at the bottom. On the reverse, in three lines, are the words 
``FOR MILITARY ACHIEVEMENT'' above a space for inscription and below 
there are two slips of laurel. The moired ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide 
and consists of the following stripes: \1/8\ inch Green 67129; \1/16\ 
inch White 67101; \1/8\ inch Green; \1/16\ inch White; \9/32\ inch 
Ultramarine Blue 67118; center \1/16\ inch White; \9/32\ inch 
Ultramarine Blue; \1/16\ inch White; \1/8\ inch Green; \1/16\ inch 
White; and \1/8\ inch Green.


Sec.  578.22  Prisoner of War Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The POW Medal is authorized by Public Law 99-145, 10 
U.S.C. 1128, November 8, 1985, as amended by 10 U.S.C. 1128, November 
29, 1989. It is authorized for any person who, while serving in any 
capacity with the U.S. Armed Forces, was taken prisoner and held 
captive after April 5, 1917.
    (1) The POW Medal is to be issued only to those U.S. military 
personnel and other personnel granted creditable U.S. military service, 
who were taken prisoner and held captive--
    (i) While engaged in an action against an enemy of the United 
States.
    (ii) While engaged in military operations involving conflict with 
an opposing foreign force.
    (iii) While serving with friendly forces engaged in an armed 
conflict against an opposing force in which the United States is not a 
belligerent party.
    (iv) By foreign armed forces that are hostile to the United States, 
under circumstances which the Secretary concerned finds to have been 
comparable to those under which persons have generally been held 
captive by enemy armed forces during periods of armed conflict.
    (2) U.S. and foreign civilians who have been credited with U.S. 
military service which encompasses the period of captivity are also 
eligible for the medal. The Secretary of Defense authorized on January 
27, 1990, the POW Medal for the Philippine Commonwealth Army and 
Recognized Guerrilla Unit Veterans who were held captive between 
December 7, 1941, and September 26, 1945. DD Form 2510-1 (Prisoner of 
War Medal Application/Information-Philippine Commonwealth Army and 
Recognized Guerrilla Veterans) was developed as the application for 
Filipino Veterans who fit this category.
    (3) For purposes of this medal, past armed conflicts are defined as 
World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam Conflict, Grenada, 
Panama, Persian Gulf War, and Somalia. Hostages of terrorists and 
persons detained by governments with which the United States is not 
engaged actively in armed conflict are not eligible for the medal.
    (4) Any person convicted of misconduct or a criminal charge by a 
U.S. military tribunal, or who receives a less than honorable discharge 
based upon actions while a prisoner of war, or whose conduct was not in 
accord with the Code of Conduct, and whose actions are documented by 
U.S. military records is ineligible for the medal. The Secretary of the 
Army is the authority for deciding eligibility in such cases.
    (5) No more than one POW Medal will be awarded. For subsequent 
award of the medal, service stars will be awarded and worn on the 
suspension and service ribbon of the medal. A period of captivity 
terminates on return to U.S. military control. Escapees who do not 
return to U.S. military control and are recaptured by an enemy do not 
begin a new period of captivity for subsequent award of the POW Medal. 
(Service stars are described in Sec.  578.61.)
    (6) The POW Medal may be awarded posthumously.
    (7) The primary next of kin of eligible prisoners of war who die in 
captivity may be issued the POW Medal regardless of the length of stay 
in captivity.
    (8) Personnel officially classified as Missing in Action (MIA) are 
not eligible for award of the POW Medal. The POW Medal will only be 
awarded when the individual's prisoner of war status has been 
officially confirmed and recognized as such by the DA. Likewise, the 
return of remains, in and of itself, does not constitute evidence of 
confirmed prisoner of war status.
    (b) Award of the POW Medal to active military personnel, veterans, 
retirees and their next of kin--(1) Active Military Personnel. Award of 
the POW Medal to military personnel in an active war will be processed 
by the Commander, USA HRC (see Sec.  578.3 (c)), after coordination 
with the Repatriation and Family Affairs Division.
    (2) Veterans, retirees and their next of kin. All requests for the 
POW Medal will be initiated by eligible former POWs, or their next of 
kin, using a personal letter or DD Form 2510 (Prisoner of War Medal 
Application/ Information). Applications should be forwarded to the NPRC 
(see Sec.  578.16(a)(3) for address).
    (c) Description. A purple heart within a Gold border, 1\3/8\ inches 
wide, containing a profile of General George Washington. Above the 
heart appears a shield of the Washington Coat of Arms (a White shield 
with two Red bars and three Red stars in chief) between sprays of Green 
leaves. The reverse consists of a raised Bronze heart with the words 
``FOR MILITARY MERIT'' below the coat of arms and leaves. The ribbon is 
1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of the following stripes: \1/8\ inch 
White 67101; 1\1/8\ inches Purple 67115; and \1/8\ inch White 67101.


Sec.  578.23  National Defense Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) was 
established by Executive Order 10448, April 22, 1953, as amended by 
Executive Order 11265, January 11, 1966 and Executive Order 12776, 
October 18, 1991. It is awarded for honorable active service for any 
period between June 27, 1950 and July 27, 1954, both dates inclusive; 
between January 1, 1961 and August 14, 1974, both dates inclusive; 
between August 2, 1990 and November 30, 1995, both dates inclusive; and 
from September 11, 2001 to a date to be determined.
    (1) For the purpose of this award, the following persons will not 
be considered as performing active service:
    (i) Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve forces personnel on 
short tours of duty to fulfill training obligations under an inactive 
duty training program.
    (ii) Any service member on temporary duty or temporary active duty 
to serve on boards, courts, commissions, and like organizations.
    (iii) Any service member on active duty for the sole purpose of 
undergoing a physical examination.
    (2) In addition to the conditions listed above, Executive Order 
12776 extended

[[Page 17290]]

award of the NDSM to all members of the Army National Guard and United 
States Army Reserve who were part of the selected Reserve in good 
standing during the period August 2, 1990 to November 30, 1995. During 
this period, soldiers in the following categories will not be 
considered eligible:
    (i) Any soldier of the Individual Ready Reserve, Inactive National 
Guard or the standby or retired Reserve whose active duty service was 
for the sole purpose of undergoing a physical examination.
    (ii) Any soldier of the Individual Ready Reserve, Inactive National 
Guard or the standby or retired reserve whose active duty service was 
for training only, or to serve on boards, courts, commissions and like 
organizations.
    (3) On March 28, 2003, the President signed an amendment to 
Executive Order 10448 that extends the eligibility criteria for award 
of the NDSM to members of the selected Reserve of the Armed Forces of 
the United States in good standing during the period beginning 
September 11, 2001 to a date to be determined to be eligible for award 
of the NDSM.
    (4) Any member of the Army National Guard or U.S. Army Reserve who, 
after December 31, 1960, becomes eligible for the award of the Armed 
Forces Expeditionary Medal or the Vietnam Service Medal, is also 
eligible for award of the NDSM. The NDSM may be awarded to members of 
the Reserve Component who are ordered to Federal active duty regardless 
of the duration (except for categories listed above).
    (5) To signify receipt of a second or subsequent award of the NDSM, 
a service star will be worn on the service ribbon by U.S. Army 
personnel so qualified. Second or third award of the NDSM is authorized 
for soldiers who served in one or more of the three time periods as 
listed in paragraph (a) of this section. It is not authorized for 
soldiers who met the criteria in one time period, left active duty and 
returned during the same period of eligibility. (Service stars are 
described in Sec.  578.61)
    (6) Cadets of the U.S. Military Academy are eligible for the NDSM, 
during any of the inclusive periods listed above, upon completion of 
the swearing-in ceremonies as a cadet.
    (7) The NDSM may be awarded posthumously.
    (b) Description. On a Bronze medal, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, an 
eagle displayed with inverted wings standing on a sword and palm 
branch, all beneath the inscription ``NATIONAL DEFENSE''. On the 
reverse is a shield taken from the Coat of Arms of the United States 
with an open wreath below it, the right side of oak leaves and the left 
side of laurel leaves. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of 
the following stripes: \7/16\ inch Scarlet 67111; \1/32\ inch White 
67101; \1/32\ inch Old Glory Blue 67178; \1/32\ inch White; \1/32\ inch 
Scarlet; center \1/4\inch Golden Yellow 67104; \1/32\ inch Scarlet; \1/
32\ inch White; \1/32\ inch Old Glory Blue; \1/32\ inch White; and \7/
16\ inch Scarlet.


Sec.  578.24  Antarctica Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Antarctica Service Medal (ASM) was established by 
Public Law 86-600 (DA Bulletin. 3, 1960). It is awarded to any person 
who, after January 2, 1946 and before a date to be announced, meets any 
of the following qualifications:
    (1) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States or civilian 
citizen, national, or resident alien of the United States who, is a 
member of a direct support or exploratory operation in Antarctica.
    (2) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States or civilian 
citizen, national, or resident alien of the United States who 
participates in or has participated in a foreign Antarctic expedition 
in Antarctica in coordination with a United States expedition and who 
is or was under the sponsorship and approval of competent U.S. 
Government authority.
    (3) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who 
participates in or has participated in flights as a member of the crew 
of an aircraft flying to or from the Antarctic continent in support of 
operations in Antarctica.
    (4) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States or civilian 
citizen, national, or resident alien of the United States who serves or 
has served on a U.S. ship operating south of latitude 60 degrees S. in 
support of U.S. programs in Antarctica.
    (5) Any person, including citizens of foreign nations, not 
fulfilling any above qualification, but who participates in or has 
participated in a United States expedition in Antarctica at the 
invitation of a participating United States Agency. In such case, the 
award will be made by the Secretary of the Department under whose 
cognizance the expedition falls provided the commander of the military 
support force as senior U.S. representative in Antarctica considers 
that the individual has performed outstanding and exceptional service 
and shared the hardship and hazards of the expedition.
    (b) Personnel who remain on the Antarctic Continent during the 
winter months will be eligible to wear a clasp or a disc as described 
below:
    (1) A clasp with the words ``Wintered Over'' on the suspension 
ribbon of the medal:
    (2) A \5/16\ inch diameter disc with an outline of the Antarctic 
continent inscribed thereon fastened to the bar ribbon representing the 
medal.
    (3) The appurtenances in paragraphs (b)(1) and (2) of this section 
are awarded in bronze for the first winter, in gold for the second 
winter and in silver for personnel who ``winter over'' three or more 
times.
    (c) Subsequent to June 1, 1973, minimum time limits for the award 
are 30 days under competent orders to duty at sea or ashore, south of 
latitude 60 degrees S. Each day of duty under competent orders at any 
outlying station on the Antarctic continent will count as 2 days when 
determining award eligibility. Effective July 1, 1987, flight crews of 
aircraft providing logistics support from outside the Antarctic area 
may qualify for the award after 15 missions (one flight in and out 
during any 24-hour period equals one mission). Days need not be 
consecutive.
    (d) No person is authorized to receive more than one award of the 
ASM. Not more than one clasp or disc will be worn on the ribbon. 
Antarctica is defined as the area south of latitude 60 degrees S. The 
ASM takes precedence immediately after the Korean Service Medal.
    (e) Description. The medal is bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, 
with a view of a polar landscape and the standing figure in Antarctica 
clothing facing to the front between the horizontally placed words 
``ANTARCTICA'' on the figure's right and ``SERVICE'' on the figure's 
left. On the reverse is a polar projection with geodesic lines of the 
continent of Antarctica across which are the horizontally placed words 
``COURAGE'', ``SACRIFICE'', and ``DEVOTION'', all within a circular 
decorative border of penguins and marine life. The Suspension Ribbon 
Clasp: On a metal clasp, 1\1/4\ inches in width and \1/4\ inch in 
height, inscribed with the words ``WINTERED OVER'' in raised letters 
within a \1/32\ inch rim. The metal color of the clasp is Bronze for 
the first winter, Gold for the second winter and Silver for the third 
winter. The Service Ribbon Attachment: On a metal disc, \5/16\ inch in 
diameter, a superimposed delineation of the Antarctica continent. The 
metal color of the ribbon attachment is Bronze for the first winter, 
Gold for the second winter and Silver for the third winter. The ribbon 
is 1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of a \3/16\ inch Black stripe on 
each edge and graded from a White stripe in the

[[Page 17291]]

center to a Pale Blue, Light Blue, Greenish Blue, and Medium Blue.


Sec.  578.25  Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (AFEM) was 
established by Executive Order 10977, dated December 4, 1961 (DA 
Bulletin. 1, 1962) and Executive Order 11231, July 8, 1965. This medal 
is authorized for:
    (1) U.S. military operations.
    (2) U.S. operations in direct support of the United Nations.
    (3) U.S. operations of assistance for friendly foreign nations.
    (b) Requirements. The AFEM is awarded for services after July 1, 
1958, meeting the following qualifications:
    (1) Personnel must be a bona fide member of a unit and engaged in 
the operation, or meet one or more of the following criteria:
    (i) Have served not less than 30 consecutive days in the area of 
operations.
    (ii) Be engaged in direct support of the operation for 30 
consecutive days or 60 nonconsecutive days, provided this support 
involves entering the area of operations. The qualifying criteria for 
non-unit direct support personnel in Grenada is 6 consecutive days or 
12 non-consecutive days.
    (iii) Serve for the full period where an operation is of less than 
30 days duration.
    (iv) Be engaged in actual combat, or duty which is equally as 
hazardous as combat, during the operation with armed opposition, 
regardless of time in the area.
    (v) Participate as a regularly assigned crewmember of an aircraft 
flying into, out of, within, or over the area in support of the 
military operation.
    (2) If the criteria above have not been fulfilled the individual 
must be recommended, or attached to a unit recommended, by the chief of 
a service or the commander of a unified or specified command for award 
of the medal. Such recommendations may be made to the Joint Chiefs of 
Staff (JCS) for duty of such value to the operation as to warrant 
particular recognition.
    (c) The designated U.S. military operations, areas, and dates are 
provided in Table 4 below:

                                 Table 4
------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Area                      Dates              Explanation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quemoy and Matsu Islands....  August 23, 1956 to    ....................
                               June 1, 1963.
Lebanon.....................  July 1, 1958 to       ....................
                               November 1, 1958.
Taiwan Straits..............  August 23, 1958 to    ....................
                               January 1, 1959.
Berlin......................  August 14, 1961 to    ....................
                               June 1, 1963.
Cuba........................  October 24, 1962 to   ....................
                               June 1, 1963.
Congo.......................  November 23 to 27,    ....................
                               1964.
Dominican Republic..........  April 28, 1965 to     ....................
                               September 21, 1966.
Korea.......................  October 1, 1966 to    ....................
                               June 30, 1974.
Cambodia--Operation EAGLE     April 11 to 13, 1975  Evacuation of
 PULL.                                               Cambodia.
Vietnam--Operation FREQUENT   April 29 to 30, 1975  Evacuation of
 WIND.                                               Vietnam (see Sec.
                                                     578.26(e) for
                                                     conversion of AFEM
                                                     to VSM).
Mayaguez Operation..........  May 15, 1975........  ....................
Grenada--Operation URGENT     October 23, 1983 to   The qualifying
 FURY.                         November 21, 1983.    criteria for non-
                                                     unit direct support
                                                     personnel in
                                                     Grenada is 6
                                                     consecutive days or
                                                     12 nonconsecutive
                                                     days.
Libya--Operation ELDORADO     April 12, 1986 to     ....................
 CANYON.                       April 17, 1986.
Panama--Operation JUST CAUSE  December 20, 1989 to  ....................
                               January 31, 1990.
Haiti--Operation UPHOLD       September 16, 1994    ....................
 DEMOCRACY.                    to March 31, 1995.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) Designated U.S. operations in direct support of the United 
Nations are provided in Table 5 below:

                                 Table 5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Area                      Dates              Explanation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Congo.......................  July 14, 1960 to
                               September 1, 1962.
Somalia--Operations RESTORE   December 5, 1992 to
 HOPE and UNITED SHIELD.       March 31, 1995.
Former Republic of            June 1, 1992 to June  Only for
 Yugoslavia--Operations        20, 1998.             participants
 JOINT ENDEAVOR and JOINT                            deployed in Bosnia-
 GUARD.                                              Herzegovina and
                                                     Croatia.
Former Republic of            June 21, 1998 to a
 Yugoslavia--Operation JOINT   date to be
 FORGE.                        determined.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (e) Designated U.S. operations of assistance for a friendly foreign 
nation are provided in Table 6 below:

                                 Table 6
------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Area                      Dates              Explanation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vietnam.....................  July 1, 1958 to July
                               3, 1965.

[[Page 17292]]

 
Laos........................  April 19, 1961 to
                               October 7, 1962.
Cambodia....................  March 29, 1973 to
                               August 15, 1973.
Thailand....................  March, 29 1973 to     Only those in direct
                               August 15, 1973.      support of Cambodia
                                                     operations.
El Salvador.................  January 1, 1981 to
                               February 1, 1992.
Lebanon.....................  June 1, 1983 to
                               December 1, 1987.
Persian Gulf--Operation       July 24, 1987 (the    The area of
 EARNEST WILL.                 date of the           operations is the
                               Bridgeton incident)   area from 20
                               to August 1, 1990.    degrees north
                                                     latitude northward
                                                     to 30 degrees, 30
                                                     minutes, north
                                                     latitude and from
                                                     46 degrees, 36
                                                     minutes, east
                                                     longitude eastward
                                                     to 63 degrees east
                                                     longitude. These
                                                     geographical limits
                                                     include the Persian
                                                     Gulf, Bahrain,
                                                     Kuwait, the Gulf of
                                                     Oman and most of
                                                     Saudi Arabia.
Southwest Asia:
    --Operation SOUTHERN      December 1, 1995 to
     WATCH.                    a date to be
                               determined.
    --Maritime Intercept      December 1, 1995 to
     Operation.                a date to be
                               determined.
    --Vigilant Sentinel.....  December 1, 1995 to
                               February 15, 1997.
    --Operation NORTHERN      January 1, 1997 to a
     WATCH.                    date to be
                               determined.
    --Operation DESERT        November 11, 1998 to
     THUNDER.                  December 22, 1998.
    --Operation DESERT FOX..  December 16, 1998 to
                               December 22, 1998.
    --Operation DESERT        December 31, 1998 to
     SPRING.                   a date to be
                               determined.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (f) One bronze service star is worn to denote subsequent award of 
the AFEM. To be eligible for additional awards, service must be 
rendered in more than one of the designated areas and dates specified 
in paragraphs (c), (d), and (e) of this section. No two awards will be 
made for service in the same designated area.
    (g) Arrowhead Device. The arrowhead device is a bronze replica of 
an Indian arrowhead \1/4\-inch high. It denotes participation in a 
combat parachute jump, helicopter assault landing, combat glider 
landing, or amphibious assault landing, while assigned or attached as a 
member of an organized force carrying out an assigned tactical mission. 
A soldier must actually exit the aircraft or watercraft, as 
appropriate, to receive assault landing credit. Individual assault 
credit is tied directly to the combat assault credit decision for the 
unit to which the soldier is attached or assigned at the time of the 
assault. It is worn on the service and suspension ribbons of the AFEM 
when the unit is credited with assault landing credit. Only one 
arrowhead device will be worn on the ribbon.
    (h) Description. The medal is bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, an 
eagle, with wings addorsed and inverted, standing on a sword loosened 
in its scabbard, and super-imposed on a radiant compass rose of eight 
points, all within the circumscription ``ARMED FORCES'' above and 
``EXPEDITIONARY SERVICE'' below with a sprig of laurel on each side. On 
the reverse is the shield from the United States Coat of Arms above two 
laurel branches separated by a bullet, all within the circumscription 
``UNITED STATES OF AMERICA''. The ribbon is 1 \3/8\ inches wide and 
consists of the following stripes: \3/32\ inch Green 67129; \3/32\ inch 
Golden Yellow 67104; \3/32\ inch Spicebrown 67196; \3/32\ inch Black 
67138; \7/32\ inch Bluebird 67117; \1/16\ inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 
\1/16\ inch White 67101; \1/16\ inch Scarlet; \7/32\ inch Bluebird; \3/
32\ inch Black; \3/32\ inch Spicebrown; \3/32\ inch Golden Yellow; and 
\3/32\ inch Green.


Sec.  578.26  Vietnam Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Vietnam Service Medal (VSM) was established by 
Executive Order 11231, July 8, 1965. It is awarded to all members of 
the Armed Forces of the United States serving in Vietnam and contiguous 
waters or airspace thereover, after July 3, 1965 through March 28, 
1973. Members of the Armed Forces of the United States in Thailand, 
Laos, or Cambodia, or the airspace thereover, during the same period 
and serving in direct support of operations in Vietnam are also 
eligible for this award.
    (b) Qualifications: To qualify for award of the VSM an individual 
must meet one of the following qualifications:
    (1) Be attached to or regularly serve for 1 or more days with an 
organization participating in or directly supporting military 
operations.
    (2) Be attached to or regularly serve for 1 or more days abroad a 
Naval vessel directly supporting military operations.
    (3) Actually participate as a crewmember in one or more aerial 
flights into airspace above Vietnam and contiguous waters directly 
supporting military operations.
    (4) Serve on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 
nonconsecutive days in Vietnam or contiguous areas, except that time 
limit may be waived for personnel participating in actual combat 
operations.
    (c) No person will be entitled to more than one award of the VSM.
    (d) Individuals qualified for the AFEM for reason of service in 
Vietnam between July 1, 1958 and July 3, 1965 (inclusive) shall remain 
qualified for that medal. Upon request (unit personnel officer) any 
such individual may be awarded the VSM instead of the AFEM. In such 
instances, the AFEM will be deleted from the list of authorized medals 
in personnel records. No person will be entitled to both awards for 
Vietnam service.
    (e) Service members who earned the AFEM for Operation FREQUENT WIND 
between April 29-30, 1975, may elect to receive the Vietnam Service 
Medal instead of the AFEM. No service member may be issued both medals 
for service in Vietnam.
    (f) Vietnam and contiguous waters, as used herein, is defined as an 
area which includes Vietnam and the water adjacent thereto within the 
following specified limits: From a point on the East Coast of Vietnam 
at the juncture of Vietnam with China southeastward to 21 degrees N. 
latitude, 108 degrees; 15'E. longitude; thence, southward to 18 
degrees; N. latitude, 108 degrees; 15' E. longitude; thence 
southeastward to 17 degrees 30' N. latitude, 111 degrees E.

[[Page 17293]]

longitude; thence southward to 11 degrees N. latitude; 111 degrees E. 
longitude; thence southwestward to 7 degrees N. latitude, 105 degrees 
E. longitude; thence westward to 7 degrees N. latitude, 103 degrees; E. 
longitude; thence northward to 9 degrees 30' N. latitude, 103 degrees 
E. longitude, thence northeastward to 10 degrees 15' N. latitude, 104 
degrees 27' E. longitude; thence northward to a point on the West Coast 
of Vietnam at the juncture of Vietnam with Cambodia.
    (g) The VSM may be awarded posthumously.
    (h) The boundaries of the Vietnam combat zone for campaign 
participation credit are as defined in paragraph (d) of this section.
    (i) One bronze service star is authorized for each campaign under 
the following conditions:
    (1) Assigned or attached to and present for duty with a unit during 
the period in which it participated in combat.
    (2) Under orders in the combat zone and in addition meets any of 
the following requirements:
    (i) Awarded a combat decoration.
    (ii) Furnished a certificate by a commanding general of a corps, 
higher unit, or independent force that he actually participated in 
combat.
    (iii) Served at a normal post of duty (as contrasted to occupying 
the status of an inspector, observer, or visitor).
    (iv) Aboard a vessel other than in a passenger status and furnished 
a certificate by the home port commander of the vessel that he served 
in the combat zone.
    (3) Was an evadee or escapee in the combat zone or recovered from a 
prisoner-of-war status in the combat zone during the time limitations 
of the campaign. Prisoners of war will not be accorded credit for the 
time spent in confinement or while otherwise in restraint under enemy 
control.
    (j) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, an 
oriental dragon behind a grove of bamboo trees above the inscription 
``REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM SERVICE.'' On the reverse, a crossbow surmounted 
a by a torch above the arched inscription ``UNITED STATES OF AMERICA''. 
The ribbon is 1 \3/8\ inches wide and consists of the following 
stripes: \1/8\ inch Primitive Green 67188; \5/16\ inch Air Force Yellow 
67103; \1/16\ inch Old Glory Red 67156; \5/32\ inch Air Force Yellow; 
center \1/16\ inch Old Glory Red; \5/32\ inch Air Force Yellow; \1/16\ 
inch Old Glory Red; \5/16\ inch Air Force Yellow; and \1/8\ inch 
Primitive Green.
    (k) The Vietnam campaigns are provided in Table 7 below:

                                 Table 7
------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Campaigns              Inclusive dates    Streamer inscription
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vietnam Advisory Campaign...  March 15, 1962 to     Vietnam Advisory
                               March 7, 1965.        1962-1965.
Vietnam Defense Campaign....  March 8, 1965 to      Vietnam Defense
                               December 24, 1965.    1965.
Vietnam Counteroffensive....  December 25, 1965 to  Vietnam
                               June 30, 1966.        Counteroffensive
                                                     1965-1966.
Vietnam Counteroffensive      July 1, 1966 to May   Vietnam Phase II
 Phase II.                     31, 1967 (see         1966, 1967.
                               footnote below).
Vietnam Counteroffensive      June 1, 1967 to       Vietnam
 Phase III.                    January 29, 1968.     Counteroffensive,
                                                     Phase III, 1967-
                                                     1968.
Tet Counteroffensive........  January 30, 1967 to   Tet Counteroffensive
                               April 1, 1968.        1968.
Vietnam Counteroffensive      April 2, 1968 to      Vietnam
 Phase IV.                     June 30, 1968.        Counteroffensive,
                                                     Phase IV 1968.
Vietnam Counteroffensive      July 1, 1968 to       Vietnam
 Phase V.                      November 1, 1968.     Counteroffensive,
                                                     Phase V 1968.
Vietnam Counteroffensive      November 2, 1968 to   Vietnam
 Phase VI.                     February 22, 1969.    Counteroffensive,
                                                     Phase VI 1968-1969.
Tet 69 Counteroffensive.....  February 23, 1969 to  Tet 69/
                               June 8, 1969.         Counteroffensive,
                                                     1969.
Vietnam Summer-Fall 1969....  June 9, 1969 to       Vietnam Summer-Fall
                               October 31, 1969.     1969.
Vietnam Winter-Spring 1970..  November 1, 1969 to   Vietnam Winter-
                               April 30, 1970.       Spring 1970.
Sanctuary Counteroffensive..  May 1, 1970 to June   Sanctuary
                               30, 1970.             Counteroffensive
                                                     1970.
Vietnam Counteroffensive      July 1, 1970 to June  Vietnam
 Phase VII.                    30, 1971.             Counteroffensive,
                                                     Phase VII, 1970-
                                                     1971.
Consolidation I.............  July 1, 1971 to       Consolidation I
                               November 30, 1971.    1971.
Consolidation II............  December 1, 1971 to   Consolidation II
                               March 29, 1972.       1971-1972.
Vietnam Cease-Fire..........  March 30, 1972 to     Vietnam Cease-Fire
                               January 28, 1973.     1972-1973.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Footnote: Arrowhead device authorized only for members of the 173d
  Airborne Brigade who actually participated in the landing in the
  vicinity of Katum, Republic of Vietnam, between the hours of 0800-
  0907, inclusive on February 27, 1967. A bronze service star affixed to
  the Parachutist Badge is authorized for members of the 173d Airborne
  Brigade for participation in combat parachute jump on February 22,
  1967 per Department of the Army General Orders 18, 1979.

Sec.  578.27  Southwest Asia Service Medal.

    (a) The Southwest Asia Service Medal (SWASM) was established by 
Executive Order 12754, March 12, 1991. It is awarded to all members of 
the Armed Forces of the United States serving in Southwest Asia and 
contiguous waters or airspace thereover, on or after August 2, 1990 to 
November 30, 1995. Southwest Asia and contiguous waters, as used 
herein, is defined as an area which includes the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, 
Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies 
north of 10 degrees N. latitude and west of 68 degrees E. longitude, as 
well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, 
Bahrain, Qatar, and United Arab Emirates.
    (b) Members of the Armed Forces of the United States serving in 
Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including the airspace and 
territorial waters) between January 17, 1991 and April 11, 1991, will 
also be eligible for this award. Members serving in these countries 
must have been under the command and control of U.S. Central Command or 
directly supporting military operations in the combat theater.
    (c) To be eligible, a service member must meet one or more of the 
following criteria:
    (1) Be attached to or regularly serving for one or more days with 
an organization participating in ground or shore (military) operations.
    (2) Be attached to or regularly serving for one or more days aboard 
a naval vessel directly supporting military operations.
    (3) Be actually participating as a crew member in one or more 
aerial flights directly supporting military operations in the areas 
designated in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section.

[[Page 17294]]

    (4) Be serving on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 
nonconsecutive days. These time limitations may be waived for people 
participating in actual combat operations.
    (d) The SWASM may be awarded posthumously to any person who lost 
his or her life while, or as a direct result of, participating in 
Operation DESERT SHIELD or Operation DESERT STORM without regard to the 
length of such service, if otherwise eligible.
    (e) One bronze service star will be worn on the suspension and 
service ribbon of the SWASM for participation in each designated 
campaign. Service stars are described in Sec.  578.61. The designated 
campaigns for Southwest Asia are provided in Table 8 below:

                                 Table 8
------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Campaign               Inclusive dates    Streamer inscription
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Defense of Saudi Arabia.....  August 2, 1990 to     Defense of Saudi
                               January 16, 1991.     Arabia 1990-1991.
Liberation and Defense of     January 17, 1991 to   Liberation and
 Kuwait.                       April 11, 1991.       Defense of Kuwait
                                                     1991.
Southwest Asia Cease-Fire...  April 12, 1991 to     Southwest Asia Cease-
                               November 30, 1995.    Fire, 1991-1995.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (f) See AR 670-20 for the Civilian Service in Southwest Asia Medal.
    (g) Description. The medal is Bronze 1\1/4\ inches wide, with the 
words ``SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE'' across the center background. Above 
the center is a desert scene with a tank, armored personnel carrier, 
helicopter and camels with the rising sun in the background. Below the 
center is a seascape with ship, tanker, aircraft and clouds in the 
background. On the reverse, is an upraised sword entwined with a palm 
frond and ``UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'' around the edge. The ribbon is 
1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of the following stripes: \1/16\ inch 
Black 67138; \1/8\ inch Chamois 67142; \1/16\ inch Old Glory Blue 
67178; \1/16\ inch White 67101;\ 1/16\ inch Old Glory Red 67156; \3/16\ 
inch Chamois; \3/32\ inch Myrtle Green 67190; center \1/16\ inch Black; 
\3/32 \ inch Myrtle Green; \3/16\ inch Chamois; \1/16\ inch Old Glory 
Red; \1/16 \ inch White; \1/16\ inch Old Glory Blue; \1/8\ inch 
Chamois; and \1/16\ inch Black.


Sec.  578.28  Kosovo Campaign Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Kosovo Campaign Medal (KCM) was established by 
Executive Order 13154, May 3, 2000. It is awarded to members of the 
Armed Forces of the United States who, after March 24, 1999, meet the 
following criteria:
    (1) Participated in or served in direct support of Kosovo 
Operation(s): ALLIED FORCE; JOINT GUARDIAN; ALLIEDHARBOUR; SUSTAIN 
HOPE/SHINING HOPE; NOBLE ANVIL; or Kosovo TASK FORCE(S): HAWK, SABER; 
or HUNTER within the Kosovo Air Campaign or Kosovo Defense Campaign 
areas of eligibility.
    (i) Kosovo Air Campaign. The Kosovo Air Campaign began on March 24, 
1999 and ended on June 10, 1999. The area of eligibility for the Air 
Campaign includes the total land area and air space of Serbia 
(including Kosovo), Montenegro, Albania, Macedonia, Bosnia, Croatia, 
Hungary, Romania, Greece, Bulgaria, Italy and Slovenia; and the waters 
and air space of the Adriatic and Ionian Sea north of the 39th North 
latitude.
    (ii) Kosovo Defense Campaign. The Kosovo Defense Campaign began on 
June 11, 1999 to a date to be determined. The area of eligibility for 
the Defense Campaign includes the total land area and air space of 
Serbia (including Kosovo), Montenegro, Albania, Macedonia, and the 
waters and air space of the Adriatic Seas within 12 nautical miles of 
the Montenegro, Albania, and Croatia coastlines south of 42 degrees and 
52 minutes North latitude.
    (2) Service members must be bona fide members of a unit 
participating in or be engaged in direct support of the operation for 
30 consecutive days in the area of eligibility or for 60 nonconsecutive 
days provided this support involves entering the operations area of 
eligibility for meet one or more of the following criteria:
    (i) Be engaged in actual combat, or duty that is equally as 
hazardous as combat duty, during the operation with armed opposition, 
regardless of time in the area of eligibility;
    (ii) While participating in the operation, regardless of time, is 
wounded or injured and requires medical evacuation from the area of 
eligibility.
    (iii) While participating as a regularly assigned aircrew member 
flying sorties into, out of, within, or over the area of eligibility in 
direct support of the military operations.
    (b) The KCM may be awarded posthumously to any person who lost his 
or life without regard to the length of such service.
    (c) One bronze service star will be worn on the suspension and 
service ribbon of the KCM for participation in each campaign (Kosovo 
Air Campaign and Kosovo Defense Campaign). Qualification for a second 
bronze service star requires meeting the criteria for both campaigns. 
The 30 consecutive or 60 nonconsecutive days that begin during the Air 
Campaign and continues into the Defense Campaign entitles a member to 
only one bronze service star.
    (d) Description. The medal is bronze, 1\3/8\ inches in diameter, 
with the stylized wreath of grain, reflecting the agricultural 
domination of the area and its economy, symbolizes the basic human 
rights while highlighting the desire of all for peace, safety and 
prosperity. The rocky terrain, fertile valley, and mountain pass refer 
to the Dinartic Alps and the Campaign Theater of operations. The 
sunrise denotes the dawning of a new age of unity and hope; the right 
to forge a future of freedom, progress and harmony, thus fulfilling the 
goal of the Alliance. On the reverse an outline of the Yugoslavian 
Province of Kosovo, denoting the area of conflict, is combined with a 
NATO star and highlighted compass cardinal points, signifying the 
Alliance participants who stabilized the region and provided massive 
relief. The inscription ``IN DEFENSE OF HUMANITY'' reinforces the 
objective of the action. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches in width. It is 
composed of the following vertical stripes: \15/32\ inches Old Glory 
Blue 67178; \7/64\ inch Scarlet 67111; \5/32\ inch White 67101; \7/64\ 
inch Old Glory Blue 67178; \15/32\ inch Scarlet 67111.


Sec.  578.29  Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

    (a) The Afghanistan Campaign Medal is authorized by Public Law 108-
234, May 28, 2004 and Executive Order 13363, November 29, 2004. It is 
authorized for award to individuals who served in direct support of 
Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. The area of eligibility encompasses all 
land area of the country of Afghanistan and all air spaces above the 
land. The period of eligibility is on or after October 24, 2001 to a 
future date to be determined by the Secretary of Defense or the 
cessation of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

[[Page 17295]]

    (b) Criteria. Service members qualified for the Global War on 
Terrorism Expeditionary Medal by reasons of service between October 24, 
2001 and February 28, 2005, in an area for which the Afghanistan 
Campaign Medal was subsequently authorized, shall remain qualified for 
that medal. Upon application, any such service member may be awarded 
the Afghanistan Campaign Medal in lieu of the Global War on Terrorism 
Expeditionary Medal for such service. No service member shall be 
entitled to both medals for the same act, achievement or period of 
service.
    (c) General. Service members must have been assigned, attached, or 
mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility for 30 
consecutive days or for 60 non-consecutive days or meet one of the 
following criteria:
    (1) Be engaged in combat during an armed engagement, regardless of 
the time in the area of eligibility.
    (2) While participating in an operation or on official duties, is 
wounded or injured and requires medical evacuation from the area of 
eligibility.
    (3) While participating as a regularly assigned air crewmember 
flying sorties into, out of, within or over the area of eligibility in 
direct support of the military operations; each day of operations 
counts as one day of eligibility.
    (d) Rules. The following rules apply to award of the Afghanistan 
Campaign Medal:
    (1) The Afghanistan Campaign Medal may be awarded posthumously.
    (2) Only one award of this medal may be authorized for any 
individual.
    (3) Under no condition shall personnel or units receive the 
Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary 
Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign 
Medal, or the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for the same action, 
time period or service.
    (e) Precedence. The Afghanistan Campaign Medal shall be positioned 
below the Kosovo Campaign Medal and above the Iraq Campaign Medal.
    (f) Description. On a bronze metal 1 \3/8\ inches (3.49 cm) in 
diameter above a range of mountains is a map of Afghanistan. Around the 
top is the inscription ``AFGHANISTAN CAMPAIGN.'' On the reverse, a 
radiating demisun superimposed by an eagle's head couped. Inscribed 
across the bottom half of the reverse side are the three lines ``FOR 
SERVICE'' ``IN'' ``AFGHANISTAN'' all enclosed by a laurel wreath. The 
ribbon is 1 \3/8\ inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 
\5/64\ inch Emerald 67128: \3/16\ inch Scarlet 67111; \ 1/8\ inch Black 
67138; \7/32\ inch White 67101; \1/32\ inch Scarlet 67111; \1/32\ inch 
White 67101; \1/32\ inch Old Glory Blue 67178; \1/32\ inch White 67101; 
\1/32\ inch Scarlet 67111; \7/32\ inch White 67101; \1/8\ inch Black 
67138; \3/16\ inch Scarlet 67111; \5/64\ inch Emerald 67128.


Sec.  578.30  Iraq Campaign Medal.

    (a) The Iraq Campaign Medal is authorized by Public Law 108-234, 
May 28, 2004 and Executive Order 13363, November 29, 2004. It is 
authorized for award to individuals who have served in direct support 
of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. The area of eligibility encompasses all 
land area of the country of Iraq, and the contiguous water area out to 
12 nautical miles, and all air spaces above the land area of Iraq and 
above the contiguous water area out to 12 nautical miles. The period of 
eligibility is on or after March 19, 2003 to a future date to be 
determined by the Secretary of Defense or the cessation of Operation 
IRAQI FREEDOM.
    (b) Criteria. Service members qualified for the Global War on 
Terrorism Expeditionary Medal by reasons of service between March 19, 
2003 and February 28, 2005, in an area for which the Iraq Campaign 
Medal was subsequently authorized, shall remain qualified for that 
medal. Upon application, any such service member may be awarded the 
Iraq Campaign Medal in lieu of the Global War on Terrorism 
Expeditionary Medal for such service. No service member shall be 
entitled to both medals for the same act, achievement or period of 
service.
    (c) General. Service members must have been assigned, attached, or 
mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility for 30 
consecutive days or for 60 non-consecutive days or meet one of the 
following criteria:
    (1) Be engaged in combat during an armed engagement, regardless of 
the time in the area of eligibility.
    (2) While participating in an operation or on official duties, is 
wounded or injured and requires medical evacuation from the area of 
eligibility.
    (3) While participating as a regularly assigned air crewmember 
flying sorties into, out of, within or over the area of eligibility in 
direct support of the military operations; each day of operations 
counts as one day of eligibility.
    (d) Rules. The following rules apply to award of the Iraq Campaign 
Medal:
    (1) The Iraq Campaign Medal may be awarded posthumously.
    (2) Only one award of this medal may be authorized for any 
individual.
    (3) Under no condition shall personnel receive the Iraq Campaign 
Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War 
on Terrorism Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, or the Armed 
Forces Expeditionary Medal for the same action, time period or service.
    (e) Precedence. The Iraq Campaign Medal shall be positioned below 
the Afghanistan Campaign Medal and above the Global War on Terrorism 
Expeditionary Medal.
    (f) Description. On a bronze metal \1/38\ inches (3.49 cm) in 
diameter the relief of Iraq, surmounted by two lines throughout, 
surmounting a palm wreath. Above is the inscription ``IRAQ CAMPAIGN.'' 
On the reverse, the Statue of Freedom surmounting a sunburst, encircled 
by two scimitars points down crossed at tip of blades, all above the 
inscription ``FOR SERVICE IN IRAQ.'' The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide 
and consists of the following stripes: \5/32\ inch Scarlet 67111; \1/
16\ inch White 67101; \1/32\ inch Green 67129; \1/16\ inch White 67101; 
\5/32\ inch Black 67138; \7/16\ inch Chamois 67142; \5/32\ inch Black 
67138; \1/16\ inch White 67101; \1/32\ inch Green 67129; \1/16\ inch 
White 67101; \5/32\ inch Scarlet 67111.


Sec.  578.31  Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.

    (a) The Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOTEM) was 
established by Executive Order 13289, March 12, 2003. It is authorized 
for award to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who 
deploy abroad for service in the Global War on Terrorism operations on 
or after September 11, 2001 to a date to be determined. Operations 
approved for the GWOTEM are provided in paragraph (g) of this section.
    (b) Procedures. (1) The Secretary of Defense in consultation with 
the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff will designate approved operations 
on a case-by-case basis when requested by the Combatant Commanders.
    (2) The general area of eligibility (AOE) encompasses all foreign 
land, water, and air spaces outside the fifty states of the United 
States and outside 200 nautical miles of the shores of the United 
States. The Secretary of Defense, when recommended by the Chairman, 
Joint Chiefs of Staff, shall designate the specific area of eligibility 
per qualifying operation.
    (3) Because counter-terrorism operations are global in nature, the 
AOE for an approved operation may be deemed to be non-contiguous. The

[[Page 17296]]

Combatant Commander has the authority to approve award of the medal for 
units and personnel deployed within his or her theater. Under no 
conditions will units or personnel within the United States, the 
general region excluded in paragraph (b)(2) this section be deemed 
eligible for the GWOTEM.
    (c ) Criteria. Service members must be assigned, attached or 
mobilized to a unit participating in designated operations for 30 
consecutive days or 60 nonconsecutive days in the AOE, or meet one of 
the following criteria:
    (1) Be engaged in actual combat against the enemy and under 
circumstances involving grave danger of death or serious bodily injury 
from enemy action, regardless of time in the AOE.
    (2) While participating in the designated operation, regardless of 
time, is killed, wounded or injured requiring medical evacuation from 
the AOE.
    (3) Service members participating as a regularly assigned air crew 
member flying sorties into, out of, within, or over the AOE in direct 
support of Operations Enduring Freedom and/or Iraqi Freedom are 
eligible to qualify for award of the GWOTEM. Each day that one or more 
sorties are flown in accordance with these criteria shall count as one 
day toward the 30 or 60 day requirement.
    (d) General. (1) The GWOTEM may be awarded posthumously.
    (2) Service members may be awarded both the GWOTEM and the Global 
War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM) if they meet the criteria for 
both awards; however, the qualifying period of service used to 
establish eligibility for one award cannot be used to justify 
eligibility for the other award.
    (3) Order of Precedence. The GWOTEM will be worn before the GWOTSM 
and both shall directly follow the Kosovo Campaign Medal (KCM) (i.e., 
KCM, GWOTEM, GWOTSM, Korea Defense Service Medal (KDSM), etc.).
    (4) Subsequent awards. Only one award of the GWOTEM may be 
authorized to any individual; therefore, an appurtenance (e.g., oak 
leaf cluster, bronze service star) is authorized for wear on the 
GWOTEM.
    (e) [Reserved]
    (f) Battle stars. (1) Battle stars may be applicable for service 
members who were engaged in actual combat against the enemy and under 
circumstances involving grave danger of death or serious bodily injury 
from enemy action. Only the Combatant Commander can initiate a request 
for a Battle Star. The request will contain the specific unit(s) or 
individual(s) engaged in actual combat, the duration for which actual 
combat was sustained, and a detailed description of the actions against 
the enemy.
    (2) The Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) is the approving 
authority for Battle Stars.
    (3) The approval of battle stars by the CJCS is the authority for 
the senior Army commander in the combat theater to approve campaign 
participation credit. See paragraph 7-18, Table 7-1 and Figure 7-1, AR 
600-8-22.
    (g) Approved operations. Initial award of the GWOTEM is limited to 
service members deployed abroad in Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and 
IRAQI FREEDOM in the following designated specific geographic areas of 
eligibility AOE: Algeria, Bahrain, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria 
(Bourgas), Chad, Colombia, Crete, Guantanamo Bay Cuba, Cyprus, Diego 
Garcia, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Georgia, Hungary, Iran, 
Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kosovo (only specific GWOT 
operations not associated with operations qualifying for the Kosovo 
Campaign Medal), Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, 
Oman, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Romania (Constanta), Saudia Arabia, 
Somalia, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, United Arab 
Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, that portion of the Arabian Sea north of 
10 degrees north latitude and west of 68 degrees longitude, Bab El 
Mandeb, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Aqaba, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Suez, that 
portion of the Mediterranean Sea east of 28 degrees east longitude, 
Mediterranean Sea (``Boarding And Searching'' Vessel Operations), 
Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Strait of Hormuz, and the Suez Canal.
    (h) Description. (1) Ribbon. The different topographies our Armed 
Forces operate in are represented by the colors tan for the deserts, 
green for the grass or woodlands, blue for the waterways and white for 
the snowy regions. Blue also alludes the atmosphere, the zone of 
airstrikes. Gold is emblematic of excellence and high achievement. The 
red, white and blue stripes at center highlight this nation's role in 
the global war on terrorism.
    (2) Obverse. The eagle, strong, keen of eye and vigilant, 
represents the United States and our resolve to make the world safe 
from the terrorism. The polestar and globe highlight the worldwide 
scope of this mission to secure our freedoms.
    (3) Reverse. The torch and fasces denote freedom and justice. The 
laurel represents honor and high esteem.


Sec.  578.32  Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

    (a) The Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM) was 
established by Executive Order 13289, March 12, 2003. It is authorized 
for award to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have 
participated in or served in support of the Global War on Terrorism 
operations outside of the designated areas of eligibility defined in 
Sec.  578.31 of this part, on or after September 11, 2001 to a future 
date to be determined. Operations approved for the GWOTSM are provided 
in paragraph (e) of this section.
    (b) Procedures. (1) The Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff will 
designate approved operations on a case-by-case basis when requested by 
the Combatant Commanders.
    (2) At the request of the Combatant Commander, the Chairman, Joint 
Chiefs of Staff may approve specific efforts that are rendered by 
unit(s) or individual(s) that meet all other requirements for award of 
the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal however, are not issued 
specific orders for the approved operation(s).
    (3) Battalion commanders and commanders of separate units have the 
authority to award the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal for 
approved operations to units and personnel within his or her command.
    (c) Criteria. Service members must be assigned, attached; or 
mobilized to a unit supporting designated operations listed in Sec.  
578-31 of this part for 30 consecutive days or for 60 nonconsecutive 
days, or meet one of the following criteria:
    (1) Initial award of the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal will 
be limited to airport security operations from September 27, 2001 
through May 31, 2002 and service members who supported Operations NOBLE 
EAGLE, ENDURING FREEDOM, and IRAQI FREEDOM.
    (2) All service members on active duty, including Reserve 
Components mobilized, or National Guardsmen activated on or after 
September 11, 2001 to a date to be determined having served 30 
consecutive days or 60 nonconsecutive days are authorized the Global 
War on Terrorism Service Medal.
    (d) General. (1) The GWOTSM may be awarded posthumously.
    (2) Service members may be awarded both the GWOTEM and the GWOTSM 
if they meet the requirements of both awards; however, the qualifying 
period used to establish eligibility for one cannot be used to justify 
eligibility for the other award.

[[Page 17297]]

    (3) Order of Precedence. The GWOTSM will be worn directly below the 
GWOTEM and both shall directly follow the Kosovo Campaign Medal.
    (4) Subsequent awards. Only one award of the GWOTSM may be 
authorized for any individual; therefore, an appurtenance (e.g., oak 
leaf cluster, bronze service star) is not authorized.
    (e) Approved operations. Initial approved operations for the Global 
War on Terrorism Service Medal are Airport Security Operations from 
September 27, 2001 through May 31, 2002 and Operations NOBLE EAGLE, 
ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM.
    (f) Description. (1) Ribbon. The dark red stripe denotes sacrifice. 
The gold stripes symbolize achievement. The blue stripes signify 
justice.
    (2) Obverse. The obverse has a stylized globe, the universal symbol 
of the world. Surmounting the globe is six arrows exemplifying fighting 
power and readiness, also representing the area that terrorism is being 
fought; diplomatic, military, financial, intelligence, investigative 
and law enforcement. Below, a olive branch exemplifies peace and an oak 
branch emphasizing strength and protection.
    (3) Reverse. The reverse is inscribed `FOR INTERNATIONAL RESPONSES 
AGAINST TERRORISM' between three stars commemorate achievement and 
below the year `2002'.


Sec.  578.33  Korea Defense Service Medal.

    (a) Eligibility Requirements. The Korea Defense Service Medal 
(KDSM) was authorized by Section 543, 2003 National Defense 
Authorization Act. It is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who 
have served on active duty in support of the defense of the Republic of 
Korea from July 28, 1954 to a date to be determined.
    (1) The area of eligibility encompasses all land area of the 
Republic of Korea, and the contiguous water out to 12 nautical miles, 
and all air spaces above the land and water areas.
    (2) The KDSM period of eligibility is July 28, 1954, to a future 
date to be determined by the Secretary of Defense.
    (b) Specific. Service members must have been assigned, attached, or 
mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility for 30 
consecutive or for 60 nonconsecutive days, or meet the following 
criteria:
    (1) Be engaged in combat during an armed engagement, regardless of 
the time in the area of eligibility.
    (2) Is wounded or injured in the line of duty and requires medial 
evacuation from the area of eligibility.
    (3) While participating as a regularly assigned air crew member 
flying sorties into, out of, or within the area of eligibility in 
direct support of military operations. Each day that one or more 
sorties are flown in accordance with these criteria shall count as one 
day toward the 30 or 60-day requirement.
    (4) Personnel who serve in operations and exercises conducted in 
the area of eligibility are considered eligible for the award as long 
as the basic time criteria is met. Due to the extensive time period for 
KDSM eligibility, the nonconsecutive service period for eligibility 
remains cumulative throughout the entire period.
    (c) Awarding. (1) The KDSM may be awarded posthumously.
    (2) Only one award of the KDSM is authorized for any individual.
    (d) Precedence. The KDSM shall be positioned below the Global War 
on Terrorism Service Medal in precedence; and shall be positioned above 
the Armed Forces Service Medal.
    (e) Description. The ribbon is dark green represents the land of 
Korea, blue indicates overseas service and commitment to achieving 
peace. Gold denotes excellence, white symbolizes idealism and 
integrity. The obverse is a bronze-color disc bearing a Korean ``circle 
dragon'' within an encircling scroll inscribed ``Korea Defense Service 
Medal'' with, in base, two sprigs, laurel to dexter side, bamboo to 
sinister. The four-clawed dragon is a traditional symbol of Korea and 
represents intelligence and strength of purpose. The sprig of laurel 
denotes honorable endeavor and victory, the bamboo refers to the land 
of Korea. The reverse is a representation of the land mass of Korea 
surmounted by two swords points up saltirewise within a circlet 
garnished of five points. The swords placed saltirewise over a map of 
Korea signify defense of freedom in that country and the readiness to 
engage in combat to that end. The circlet enclosing the device recalls 
the forms of five-petal symbols common in Korean armory.


Sec.  578.34  Armed Forces Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM) was established 
by Executive Order 12985, January 11, 1996. It is awarded to members of 
the Armed Forces of the United States who, after June 1, 1992 meet the 
following criteria:
    (1) Participate, or have participated, as members of U.S. military 
units, in a U.S. military operation that is deemed to be a significant 
activity; and
    (2) Encounter no foreign armed opposition or imminent threat of 
hostile action.
    (b) Eligibility requirements. To qualify for award of the AFSM 
service members must be bona fide members of a unit participating for 
one or more days in the operation within the designated area of 
eligibility, or meet one or more of the following criteria:
    (1) Be engaged in direct support for 30 consecutive days in the 
area of eligibility (or for the full period when an operation is of 
less than 30 days duration) or for 60 nonconsecutive days provided this 
support involves entering the area of eligibility.
    (2) Participate as a regularly assigned crew member of an aircraft 
flying into, out of, within, or over the area of eligibility in support 
of the operation.
    (c) Qualifying operations. (1) The AFSM may be authorized for 
significant U.S. military activities for which no other U.S. campaign 
or service medal is appropriate, such as--
    (i) Peacekeeping operations.
    (ii) Prolonged humanitarian operations.
    (2) The AFSM may be awarded for U.S. military operations in direct 
support of the United Nations (UN) or the North Atlantic Treaty 
Organization (NATO), and for operations of assistance to friendly 
foreign nations.
    (d) General criteria. (1) The AFSM provides recognition to 
participants who deploy to the designated area of eligibility for the 
qualifying operation. Outstanding or meritorious performance of non-
deployed or remotely located support units and individuals is not 
justification for award of the AFSM. Such performance may be recognized 
by appropriate unit and/or individual decorations.
    (2) Because the AFSM may be awarded for a prolonged humanitarian 
operation, distinction between the AFSM and the Humanitarian Service 
Medal (HSM) must be maintained. The following rules apply:
    (i) The HSM is an individual U.S. service medal, presented to 
individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief 
and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian action. 
The HSM is only awarded for service during the identified ``period of 
immediate relief''; eligibility for the HSM terminates once (if) the 
humanitarian action evolves into an ``established ongoing operation 
beyond the initial emergency condition.''
    (ii) The AFSM is a theater award, authorized for presentation to 
all participants who meet the eligibility requirements established for 
a designated operation.
    (iii) For operations in which all deployed participants are awarded 
the HSM and for which the ``period of immediate relief'' coincides with 
the

[[Page 17298]]

duration of significant deployed operations, award of the AFSM is not 
authorized.
    (iv) Humanitarian operations for which some (or all) participants 
are awarded the HSM, which continue beyond the ``period of immediate 
relief,'' may be recognized by award of the AFSM. The AFSM may be 
awarded for the entire period of the operation; individuals awarded the 
HSM for direct participation during the ``period of immediate relief'' 
are also eligible for the AFSM if awarded.
    (e) Limitations on awarding the AFSM. The following limitations 
apply when determining whether the AFSM should be awarded for a 
particular mission or operation or when determining eligibility for 
award to an individual:
    (1) The AFSM shall be awarded only for operations for which no 
other U.S. campaign or service medal is approved.
    (2) For operations in which personnel for only one Service 
participates, the AFSM shall be awarded only if there is no other 
suitable award available to that Service.
    (3) The military service of the individual on which qualification 
for the award of the AFSM is based shall have been honorable.
    (4) Award of the AFSM is not authorized for participation in 
national or international exercises.
    (5) The AFSM will not be awarded for NATO or United Nations 
operations not involving significant, concurrent U.S. military support 
operations.
    (f) Approval and designation of area of eligibility--(1) Approval 
of operations. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) shall 
designate U.S. military operations subsequent to June 1, 1992 that 
qualify for the AFSM.
    (2) Designation of area of eligibility. (i) The CJCS shall specify 
the qualifying area of eligibility for award of the AFSM.
    (ii) Prior to submission to the CJCS for consideration, the 
proposed qualifying area of eligibility will be coordinated with the 
Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Commander in Chiefs (CINCs) to ensure all 
appropriate locations are included.
    (iii) Upon the recommendation of a CINC and in coordination with 
the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the CJCS may adjust the area of eligibility 
to reflect changes in the location, scope and degree of participation 
of forces deployed to, and in direct support of, an operation for which 
the AFSM has been awarded.
    (g) Subsequent awards. No more than one medal shall be awarded to 
any one Service member. One bronze service star is worn to denote 
second and subsequent awards of the AFSM. To be eligible for additional 
awards, service must be rendered in more than one designated area and 
period of service. No two awards will be made for service in the same 
designated area. (Service stars are described in Sec.  578.61)
    (h) Manner of wearing. The AFSM shall take precedence immediately 
after the Southwest Asia Service Medal.
    (i) Posthumous awards. The AFSM may be awarded posthumously to 
eligible soldier's primary next of kin (primary next of kin is defined 
in the Glossary).
    (j) Designated U.S. military operations, area and dates are as 
follows:
    (1) Operations PROVIDE PROMISE, JOINT ENDEAVOR, ABLE SENTRY, DENY 
FLIGHT, MARITME MONITOR, and SHARP GUARD, from November 20, 1995 to 
December 19, 1996.
    (2) Operation JOINT GUARD from December 20, 1996 to June 20, 1998.
    (3) Operation JOINT FORGE from June 21, 1998 to a date to be 
determined.
    (4) Operation UNITED NATIONS MISSION in HAITI; U.S. FORCES in HAITI 
and U.S. SUPPORT GROUP-HAITI from April 1, 1995 to January 31, 2000.
    (5) Operation PROVIDE COMFORT from December 1, 1995 to December 31, 
1996.
    (k) See AR 672-20 for the Armed Forces Civilian Service Medal.
    (l) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter 
with a demi-torch (as on the Statue of Liberty) encircled at the top by 
the inscription ``ARMED FORCES SERVICE MEDAL'' on the obverse side. On 
the reverse side is an eagle (as on the seal of the DOD) between a 
wreath of laurel in base and the inscription ``IN PURSUIT OF 
DEMOCRACY'' at the top. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and consists 
of the following stripes: \1/16\ inch Goldenlight 67107; \1/8\ inch 
Jungle Green 67191; \1/8\ inch Green 67129; \1/8\ inch Mosstone 67127; 
\1/8\ inch Goldenlight; Center \1/4\ inch Bluebird 67117; \1/8\ inch 
Goldenlight; \1/8\ inch Mosstone; \1/8\ inch Green; \1/8\ inch Jungle 
Green; and \1/16\ inch Goldenlight.


Sec.  578.35  Humanitarian Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Humanitarian Service Medal (HSM) was established 
by Executive Order 11965, January 19, 1977. It is awarded to members of 
the Armed Forces of the United States who, after April 1, 1975, 
distinguished themselves by meritorious direct participation in a DOD 
approved significant military act or operation of a humanitarian 
nature. It is not awarded for participation in domestic disturbances 
involving law enforcement, equal rights to citizens, or protection of 
properties.
    (b) To be eligible, a service member must meet the following 
requirements:
    (1) Must be on active duty at the time of direct participation in a 
DOD approved humanitarian act or operation. ``Active duty'' means full-
time duty in the active military service of the United States. It 
includes duty on the active duty list, full-time training duty, annual 
training duty, and attendance, while in the active military service, at 
a school designated as a Service school by law or by the Secretary of 
the Military Department concerned per 10 U.S.C. 101(22). This includes 
service as a cadet at the U.S. Military Academy. Members of the Army 
National Guard are eligible provided that the use of active forces has 
been authorized in the act or operation.
    (2) Must have directly participated in the humanitarian act or 
operation within the designated geographical area of operation and 
within specified time limits. ``Direct participation'' is defined as 
``hands on'' activity at the site or sites of the military act or 
operation. Specifically excluded from eligibility for this medal are 
personnel or elements remaining at geographically separated military 
headquarters.
    (3) Must provide evidence which substantiates direct participation 
in a DOD approved humanitarian act or operation except when by-name 
eligibility lists are published. Acceptable evidence includes the 
following:
    (i) Certificates, letters of commendation or appreciation.
    (ii) Officer or enlisted evaluation reports.
    (iii) Copies of TDY or special duty orders reflecting participation 
within the specified timeframe and geographical location cited.
    (iv) After-action reports, situation reports, rosters, unit files 
or any other records or documentation which verify the service members 
participation.
    (v) Statements from commanders, supervisors, or other officials who 
were in a position to substantiate the service members direct 
participation in the area of operation.
    (c) The HSM is a U.S. service medal and does not preclude or 
conflict with other service medals or decorations awarded on the basis 
of valor, achievement or meritorious service.
    (d) No person will be awarded more than one HSM for participation 
in the same military act or operation.
    (e) A service star will be worn to denote direct participation in 
second or subsequent humanitarian acts or

[[Page 17299]]

operations. The approved HSM operations are provided in AR 600-8-22 and 
the HQDA Military Awards Branch Web site: https://www.perscomonline.army.mil/tagd/awards/HSM.doc.
    (f) See AR 672-20 for Civilian Award for Humanitarian Service.
    (g) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, 
surmounted by an open hand, palm up, extending to the upper left. On 
the reverse is a sprig of oak in a left oblique slant between the 
inscription ``FOR HUMANITARIAN SERVICE'' in three horizontal lines, and 
``UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES'' in an arc around the base. The ribbon is 
1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of the following stripes: \3/16\ inch 
Imperial Purple 67161; \1/16\ inch White 67101; \5/16\ inch Bluebird 
67117; \1/4\ inch Flag Blue 67124; \5/16\ inch Bluebird; \1/16\ inch 
White; and \3/16\ inch Imperial Purple.


Sec.  578.36  Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal 
(MOVSM) was established by Executive Order 12830, January 9, 1993. It 
may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States and 
their Reserve Components, who subsequent to December 31, 1992, perform 
outstanding volunteer community service of a sustained, direct and 
consequential nature.
    (b) To qualify for award of the MOVSM a service member's volunteer 
service must meet the following requirements:
    (1) Be to the civilian community, to include the military family 
community.
    (2) Be significant in nature and produce tangible results.
    (3) Reflect favorably on the Military Service and the DOD.
    (4) Be of a sustained and direct nature.
    (c) While there is no specific time period to qualify for the MOVSM 
(for example, 500 hours of community service within 24 calendar 
months), approval authorities shall ensure the service to be honored 
merits the special recognition afforded by this medal. The MOVSM is 
intended to recognize exceptional community support over time and not a 
single act or achievement. Further, it is intended to honor direct 
support of community activities. For the purpose of this award, 
attending membership meetings or social events of a community service 
group is not considered qualifying service, while manning a community 
crisis action telephone line is considered qualifying service.
    (d) Approval authority for award of the MOVSM will be commanders 
(overseas and CONUS (continental United States)) serving in the rank of 
Lieutenant Colonel or higher. Before the recommendation is forwarded to 
the award approval authority, the recommender must certify that the 
service member meets the eligibility criteria for award of the MOVSM. 
Substantiating documentation, such as record of hours contributed, 
letters or certificates from activity supervisors, or other proof of 
the service member's volunteer services may be attached as enclosures 
to the recommendation.
    (e) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\3/8\ inches in diameter 
bearing on the obverse, five annulets interlaced enfiled by a star and 
environed by a wreath of laurel. On the reverse is a sprig of oak 
between the inscription ``OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE'' at the top 
and ``UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES'' at the bottom. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ 
inches wide and consists of the following stripes: \1/8\ inch Bluebird 
67117; \1/8\ inch Goldenlight 67107; \3/16\ inch Bluebird; \1/16\ inch 
Green 67129; \5/32\ inch Goldenlight; center \1/16\ inch Green; \5/32\ 
inch Goldenlight; \1/16\ inch Green; \3/16\ inch Bluebird; \1/8\ inch 
Goldenlight; and \1/8\ inch Bluebird.


Sec.  578.37  Army Good Conduct Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Army Good Conduct Medal (AGCM) was established by 
Executive Order 8809, June 28, 1941 and was amended by Executive Order 
9323, 1943 and by Executive Order 10444, April 10, 1953. It is awarded 
for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity in active Federal 
military service. It is awarded on a selective basis to each soldier 
who distinguishes himself or herself from among his or her fellow 
soldiers by his exemplary conduct, efficiency, and fidelity throughout 
a specified period of continuous enlisted active Federal military 
service. There is no right or entitlement to the medal until the 
immediate commander has approved the award and the award has been 
announced in permanent orders.
    (b) Personnel eligible: (1) Active Component enlisted soldiers.
    (2) Active Guard Reserve (AGR) enlisted personnel serving on 
extended periods of active duty (other than for training) under 10 
U.S.C. and 32 U.S.C. are eligible for award of the AGCM for qualifying 
service beginning on or after September 1, 1982, provided no period of 
the service has been duplicated by the same period of service for which 
the soldier has been awarded the Army Reserve Components Achievement 
Medal (ARCAM). The AGCM qualification period may commence anytime 
during the 3 years immediately preceding the September 1, 1982 
effective date provided no portion of service for the AGCM is included 
in a period of service for which the ARCAM was awarded.
    (3) Retroactively to eligible Army of the United States (AUS) 
enlisted personnel.
    (4) Other Army enlisted personnel as may be directed by the 
Secretary of the Army.
    (c) Awarding authority. Unit commanders are authorized to award the 
AGCM to enlisted personnel serving under their command jurisdiction who 
meet the established criteria. Send requests for award of the AGCM for 
former soldiers to NPRC (see Sec.  578.8(e) for address). Requests for 
award of the AGCM for Army National Guard and Army Reserve members for 
periods of active duty based on qualifying prior active Federal 
military service (Regular Army and AUS) will be forwarded through 
normal command channels to the Commander, USA HRC-St. Louis, ATTN: 
ARPC-PSP-R, One Reserve Way, St. Louis, MO 63132-5200. Separation 
transfer points will review the records of enlisted personnel being 
separated to determine whether they qualify for the AGCM. Where 
possible, make a reasonable effort to contact the unit commander before 
awarding the medal to qualified members.
    (d) Basis for approval. The immediate unit commander's decision to 
award the AGCM will be based on his or her personal knowledge and of 
the individual's official records for periods of service under previous 
commanders during the period for which the award is to be made. The 
lack of official disqualifying comment by such previous commanders 
qualifies the use of such period toward the award by the current 
commander.
    (e) Qualifying periods of service. Any one of the following periods 
of continuous enlisted active Federal military service qualifies for 
award of the AGCM or of an AGCM Clasp (see paragraph (h) of this 
section in conjunction with the criteria in paragraph (f) of this 
section):
    (1) Each 3 years completed on or after August 27, 1940.
    (2) For first award only, 1 year served entirely during the period 
December 7, 1941 to March 2, 1946.
    (3) For first award only, upon termination of service on or after 
June 27, 1950, of less than 3 years but more than 1 year.
    (4) For first award only, upon termination of service, on or after 
June

[[Page 17300]]

27, 1950, of less than 1 year when final separation was by reason of 
physical disability incurred in the line of duty.
    (5) For first award only, for those individuals who died before 
completing 1 year of active Federal military service if the death 
occurred in the line of duty.
    (f) Character of service. Throughout a qualifying period, each 
enlisted soldier must meet all of the following criteria for an award:
    (1) The immediate commander evaluates the soldier's character as 
above reproach.
    (2) The record of service indicates that the soldier has--
    (i) Willingly complied with the demands of the military 
environment.
    (ii) Been loyal and obedient to their superiors.
    (iii) Faithfully supported the goals of their organization and the 
Army.
    (iv) Conducted themselves in such an exemplary manner as to 
distinguish them from their fellow soldiers.
    (3) While any record of non-judicial punishment could be in 
conflict with recognizing the soldier's service as exemplary, such 
record should not be viewed as automatically disqualifying. The 
commander analyzes the record, giving consideration to the nature of 
the infraction, the circumstances under which it occurred and when. 
Conviction by court-martial terminates a period of qualifying service; 
a new period begins following the completion of sentence imposed by 
court-martial.
    (4) In terms of job performance, the soldier's efficiency must be 
evaluated and must meet all requirements and expectations for that 
soldier's grade, Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), and experience.
    (5) Individuals whose retention is not warranted under standards 
prescribed in AR 604-10, or for whom a bar to reenlistment has been 
approved under the provisions of AR 601-280, chapter 6 (specifically 
for the reasons enumerated in paragraphs 6-4a, b, and d), are not 
eligible for award of the AGCM.
    (g) Additional implementing instructions. (1) Qualifying periods of 
service (paragraph (e) of this section) must be continuous enlisted 
active Federal military service. When an interval in excess of 24 hours 
occurs between enlistments, that portion of service before to the 
interruption is not creditable toward an award.
    (2) Release from enlisted status for entry into service as a cadet 
or midshipman at any U.S. service academy, or discharge from enlisted 
status for immediate entry on active duty in an officer status is 
considered termination of service for awarding the AGCM. A minimum of 
12 months enlisted service is required and must have been completed for 
first award of the AGCM; otherwise, the full 3 years of qualifying 
enlisted service is required.
    (3) A qualified person scheduled for separation from active Federal 
military service should receive the award at his or her last duty 
station. Such award is authorized up to 30 days before the soldier's 
departure en route to a separation processing installation in CONUS or 
overseas. Orders announcing such advance awards will indicate the 
closing date for the award prefixed with date of separation, on or 
about, as the response to the ``Dates or period of service'' lead line. 
Example: From October 31, 1977 to date of separation on or about 
October 30, 1980. For soldiers who are granted terminal leave prior to 
retirement or End Tour of Service (ETS), orders awarding second and 
subsequent awards of the AGCM may be issued up to 90 days before 
retirement or ETS date.
    (4) An award made for any authorized period of less than 3 years 
must be for the total period of obligated active Federal military 
service. This applies to first award only, all other awards of the AGCM 
require 3 full years qualifying service.
    (5) Discharge under provisions of AR 635-200 for immediate 
(re)enlistment is not termination of service.
    (h) Disqualification for the Army Good Conduct Medal. (1) 
Conviction by courts-martial terminates a period of qualifying service; 
a new period begins the following day after completion of the sentence 
imposed by the court-martial.
    (2) Individual whose retention is not warranted under standards 
prescribed in AR 604-10, or for whom a bar to reenlistment has been 
approved under the provisions of AR 601-280, chapter 6 (specifically 
for the reasons enumerated in, paragraphs 6-4a, b, and d, AR 601-280), 
are not eligible for award of the AGCM.
    (3) In instances of disqualification as determined by the unit 
commander, the commander will prepare a statement of the rationale for 
his or her decision. This statement will include the period of 
disqualification and will be referred to the individual according to AR 
600-37. The unit commander will consider the affected individual's 
statement. If the commander's decision remains the same, the commander 
will forward his or her statement, the individual's statement, and his 
or her consideration for filing in the individual's military record.
    (4) Disqualification for an award of the AGCM can occur at any time 
during a qualifying period (for example, when manner of performance or 
efficiency declines). The custodian of the soldier's record will 
establish the new ``beginning date'' for the soldier's eligibility for 
award of the AGCM, annotate the date on the soldier's DA Form 2-1, and 
submit an automated transaction. These procedures do not apply if the 
soldier is disqualified under the provisions of paragraph (h)(2) of 
this section.
    (i) Subsequent awards and clasps. A clasp is authorized for wear on 
the AGCM to denote a second or subsequent award. Clasps authorized for 
second and subsequent award are:

(1) Award: 2d; Clasp: Bronze, 2 loops;
(2) Award: 3d; Clasp: Bronze, 3 loops;
(3) Award: 4th; Clasp: Bronze, 4 loops;
(4) Award: 5th; Clasp: Bronze, 5 loops;
(5) Award: 6th; Clasp: Silver, 1 loop;
(6) Award: 7th; Clasp: Silver, 2 loops;
(7) Award: 8th; Clasp: Silver, 3 loops;
(8) Award: 9th; Clasp: Silver, 4 loops;
(9) Award: 10th; Clasp: Silver, 5 loops;
(10) Award: 11th; Clasp: Gold, 1 loop;
(11) Award: 12th; Clasp: Gold, 2 loops;
(12) Award: 13th; Clasp: Gold, 3 loops;
(13) Award: 14th; Clasp: Gold, 4 loops; and
(14) Award: 15th; Clasp: Gold, 5 loops.

    (j) Army Good Conduct Medal certificate policy. (1) The DA Form 
4950 (Good Conduct Medal Certificate) may be presented to enlisted 
soldiers only on the following occasions:
    (i) Concurrent with the first award of the AGCM earned on or after 
January 1, 1981.
    (ii) Concurrent with retirement on or after January 1, 1981.
    (2) When presented at retirement, the DA Form 4950 will reflect the 
last approved award of the AGCM earned by the soldier before 
retirement. The number of the last earned will be centered immediately 
beneath the line ``THE GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL;'' for example, ``Sixth 
Award.'' The period shown on the certificate will be the period cited 
in the last award earned by the soldier. The words ``UPON HIS OR HER 
RETIREMENT'' may be typed below the soldier's name.
    (3) The DA Form 4950 will not be presented for second or subsequent 
awards of the AGCM except as provided in paragraph (j)(2) of this 
section.
    (4) DA Form 4950 is available from the U.S. Army Publications 
Distribution Center, St. Louis, MO.
    (k) Retroactive award. (1) Retroactive award to enlisted personnel, 
and to officer personnel who qualified in an enlisted status, is 
authorized provided evidence is available to establish qualification. 
Where necessary, to

[[Page 17301]]

correct conflicting or duplicate awards, previous general or permanent 
orders may be revoked and new orders published, citing this paragraph 
as authority.
    (2) Requests for retroactive awards to enlisted persons which 
cannot be processed due to lack of information will be forwarded to 
Commander, U.S. Army Enlisted Records and Evaluation Center, Fort 
Benjamin Harrison, IN 46249-5301, by the commander having command 
jurisdiction. Upon receipt of eligibility information from U.S. Army 
Enlisted Records and Evaluation Center (USAEREC), the commander can 
take action to confirm retroactive award of the AGCM by publication of 
orders, or by informing the soldier of findings of ineligibility.
    (l) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\1/4 \ inches in diameter, 
with an eagle, wings spread, standing on a closed book and sword, 
encircled by the words ``EFFICIENCY HONOR FIDELITY''. On the reverse is 
a five-pointed star and a scroll between the words ``FOR GOOD'' and 
``CONDUCT'', surrounded by a wreath formed by a laurel branch on the 
left and an oak branch on the right. Clasps are placed on the ribbon to 
represent subsequent awards. The ribbon is 1\3/8\inches ribbon 
consisting of the following stripes:\ 1/16\ inch Soldier Red 67157; \1/
16\ inch White 67101; \1/16 \ inch Soldier Red; \1/16\ inch White; \1/
16\ inch Soldier Red; \1/16\ inch White; center \5/8\ inch Soldier Red; 
\1/16\ inch White; \1/16\ inch Soldier Red; \1/16\ inch White; \1/16 \ 
inch Soldier Red; \1/16\ inch White; and \1/16\ inch Soldier Red.


Sec.  578.38  Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (ARCAM) 
was established by the Secretary of the Army on March 3, 1971 and 
amended by Department of the Army General Orders (DAGO) 4, 1974. It is 
awarded for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity while serving 
as a member of an Army National Guard (ARNG) or USAR troop program unit 
(TPU) or as an individual mobilization augmentee (IMA). The first 
design bears the inscription ``United States Army Reserve,'' the other 
design bears the inscription, ``Army National Guard.''
    (b) Personnel eligible. The ARCAM is authorized for award to Army 
personnel including Active Guard Reserve (AGR) officers in the rank of 
colonel and below. Individual must have been a member of an ARNG unit 
or USAR TPU, excluding enlisted soldiers in an AGR status. AGR enlisted 
soldiers are eligible for the AGCM under the provisions of Sec.  
578.37(b). The medal is also awarded to USAR soldiers serving as IMA 
after completing qualifying service and on recommendation of the unit 
commander or HQDA official to which the IMA is assigned.
    (c) Award approval authority. Approval authority for award of the 
ARCAM for ARNG units and USAR TPU soldiers is the soldier's unit 
commander. Commander, USA HRC-St. Louis, One Reserve Way, St. Louis, MO 
63132-5200, is the approval authority for award of the ARCAM to USAR 
IMA soldiers. Orders are not published for the award of this medal. 
Approved ARCAM is announced using an official memorandum. The records 
custodian will then annotate the records.
    (d) Peacetime and wartime applicability. The ARCAM is awarded to 
eligible Army Reserve Component soldiers during times of peace and war. 
However, during periods of war, the length of qualifying service is 
subject to change at the discretion of the Secretary of the Army.
    (e) Basis or criteria for approval. (1) Between March 3, 1972 and 
March 28, 1995, the medal was authorized on completion of 4 years' 
service with a Reserve Component unit. Individual must have completed 4 
years of qualifying service on or after March 3, 1972 and before March 
28, 1995. A qualifying year of service is one in which a Reserve 
soldier earns a minimum of 50 retirement points during his/her 
retirement year. Qualifying service for computation purposes is based 
only by retirement ending year dates.
    (2) Effective March 28, 1995, the period of qualifying service for 
award of the ARCAM is reduced from 4 to 3 years. That is, soldiers 
completing 3 years of qualified service on or after March 28, 1995 are 
eligible for ARCAM consideration. This change is not retroactive.
    (3) All awards of the ARCAM must be made under the following 
conditions:
    (i) Such years of qualifying service must have been consecutive. A 
period of more than 24 hours between Reserve enlistments or officer's 
service will be considered a break in service. Credit toward earning 
the award must begin anew after a break in service. Service while 
attending Officer Candidate School or Warrant Officer Candidate school 
will be considered enlisted service, and termination will occur when 
the soldier is commissioned or appointed a warrant officer.
    (ii) Although only unit service may be credited for award of this 
medal, consecutive Ready Reserve service between periods of unit 
service will not be considered as a break in service and service in the 
first unit may be added to service in the second unit to determine 
total qualifying service.
    (iii) Soldiers who are ordered to active duty in the AGR program 
will be awarded the ARCAM if they have completed 2 of the 3 years 
required (Army Good Conduct Medal eligibility starts on the effective 
date of the AGR order). Soldiers with less than 2 years will not 
receive an award. Service lost may be recovered if the soldier is 
separated honorably from the AGR program and reverts to troop program 
unit service, for example, a soldier serves 1 year and 6 months of 
qualifying service and is ordered to an AGR tour. This service is not 
sufficient for award of the ARCAM. When the soldier leaves the AGR 
program that 1 year and 6 months is granted towards the next award of 
the ARCAM. Only the State adjutant general may determine that the AGR 
service was not sufficiently honorable enough to revoke the previously 
earned time, regardless of the type of separation given.
    (iv) The member must have exhibited honest and faithful service as 
is in accordance with the standards of conduct, courage and duty 
required by law and customs of the service, of a member of the same 
grade as the individual to whom the standard is being applied.
    (4) A member must be recommended for the award by his or her unit 
commander whose recommendation is based on personal knowledge of the 
individual and the individual's official records of periods of service 
under prior commanders during the period for which the award is made.
    (5) A commander may not delay award or extend the qualifying period 
for misconduct. A determination that service is not honorable as 
prescribed negates the entire period of the award.
    (f) Unqualified service. (1) Service performed in the Reserve 
Components of the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard 
may not be credited for award of the ARCAM.
    (2) Release from Army Reserve Component status for entry into 
service as a cadet or midshipman at any U.S. service academy or 
discharge from Army Reserve Component for immediate entry in the 
Regular Army, in an officer or enlisted status, is considered 
termination of service for the purpose of qualifying for the ARCAM.
    (3) Service while in an enlisted AGR status may not be credited for 
award of the ARCAM.
    (g) Subsequent awards and Oak Leaf Clusters. Second and succeeding 
awards of the ARCAM are denoted by Oak Leaf Clusters.

[[Page 17302]]

    (h) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, 
consisting of a faceted twelve-pointed star with a beveled edge, the 
points surmounting a wreath of laurel and bearing on a disc within a 
smaller wreath of laurel, a torch between two swords crossed 
saltirewise, points up and flanked by two mullets. The reverse has the 
cuirass from the DA seal centered below ``ARMY NATIONAL GUARD'' or 
``UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE'' and above ``FOR ACHIEVEMENT''. The 
ribbon is 1\3/8 \ inches wide ribbon consisting of the following 
stripes: \5/16\ inch Old Gold 67105; \1/8\ inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 
\1/16\ inch White 67101; center \3/8\ inch Scarlet 67111; \1/16\ inch 
White; \1/8\ inch Ultramarine Blue; and \5/16\ inch Old Gold.


Sec.  578.39  Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon.

    (a) Criteria. The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon 
(ARCOTR) was established by the Secretary of the Army on July 11, 1984. 
It is awarded to members of the Reserve Components of the Army, (Army 
National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve), for successful completion of 
annual training (AT) or active duty for training (ADT) for a period not 
less than 10 consecutive duty days on foreign soil. ARNG and USAR 
soldiers who accompany the Reserve Component (RC) unit (including unit 
cells) to which they are assigned or attached as full-time unit support 
(FTUS) during overseas training are also eligible for the award.
    (b) Effective July 11, 1984, all members of the ARNG and USAR are 
eligible for this award if they were active Reserve status members of 
the Army National Guard, U.S. Army Reserve (not on active duty in the 
Active Army), or AGR FTUS soldiers at the time their unit underwent AT 
or ADT on foreign soil.
    (c) AGR personnel, not assigned to a TPU, are also eligible for 
award of the ARCOTR provided they are ordered overseas specifically as 
advance party to, simultaneously with, or in support of mop-up 
operations of RC units training overseas. Ten consecutive days overseas 
must be met. Other AGR members overseas for any other reason are not 
eligible for the ARCOTR.
    (d) The ARCOTR may be awarded retroactively to those personnel who 
successfully completed AT or ADT on foreign soil in a Reserve status 
prior to July 11, 1984 provided they have an active status as defined 
above on or after July 11, 1984.
    (e) Soldiers must be credited with completion of at least 10 
consecutive duty days outside the 50 States, the District of Columbia 
and U.S. possessions and territories in the performance of duties in 
conjunction with Active Army, joint services, or Allied Forces. The day 
of departure counts; the day of return does not.
    (f) The ARCOTR is a training ribbon, which does not conflict with 
service medals or decorations.
    (g) Numerals will be used to denote second and subsequent awards of 
the ARCOTR. (See Sec.  578.61 Appurtenances to military decorations.)
    (h) Description. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches in width; however, it 
is mounted on the ribbon bar horizontally so that the horizontal center 
stripe is \3/32\ inch Old Glory Red with a \3/64\ inch White stripe on 
each side. The remainder of the ribbon is Ultramarine Blue.


Sec.  578.40  Overseas Service Ribbon.

    (a) Criteria. The Overseas Service Ribbon (OSR) was established by 
the Secretary of the Army on April 10, 1981. It is awarded to members 
of the U.S. Army for successful completion of overseas tours.
    (b) Effective August 1, 1981, all members of the Active Army, Army 
National Guard and Army Reserve in an active Reserve status are 
eligible for this award. The ribbon may be awarded retroactively to 
those personnel who were credited with a normal overseas tour 
completion before August 1, 1981 provided they had an Active Army 
status as defined above on or after August 1, 1981.
    (c) Soldiers must be credited with a normal overseas tour 
completion according to AR 614-30. Service members who had overseas 
service with another branch of service (U.S. Navy, Air Force, or Marine 
Corps) must be credited with a normal overseas tour completion by that 
service to qualify for award of the Army OSR.
    (d) Numerals will be used to denote second and subsequent awards of 
the OSR.
    (e) Posthumous award of the OSR. For first award of the OSR only, 
an individual may be posthumously awarded (on or after August 1, 1981) 
the OSR before completion of the overseas tour, provided the soldier's 
death is ruled ``Line of duty-Yes.''
    (f) Description. The Army Overseas Service ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches 
in with. It is composed of the following vertical stripes: \3/16\ inch 
National Flag Blue 67124, \5/16 \ inch Grotto Blue 67165, \1/16\ inch 
Golden Yellow 67104, \1/4\ inch Brick Red 67113, \1/16\ inch Golden 
Yellow, \5/16\ inch Grotto Blue, and \3/16\ inch National Flag Blue.


Sec.  578.41  Army Service Ribbon.

    (a) Criteria. The Army Service Ribbon (ASR) was established by the 
Secretary of the Army on April 10, 1981. It is awarded to members of 
the U.S. Army for successful completion of initial entry training.
    (b) Effective August 1, 1981, all members of the Active Army, Army 
National Guard, and U.S. Army Reserve in an active Reserve status are 
eligible for this award. The ribbon may be awarded retroactively to 
those personnel who completed the required training before August 1, 
1981 provided they had an Active Army status as defined above on or 
after August 1, 1981.
    (c) Officers will be awarded this ribbon upon successful completion 
of their basic/orientation or higher level course. For those officer 
personnel assigned a specialty, special skill identifier, or MOS based 
on civilian or other service acquired skills, this ribbon will be 
awarded upon honorable completion of 4 months active service.
    (d) Enlisted soldiers will be awarded this ribbon upon successful 
completion of their initial MOS producing course. For those enlisted 
soldiers assigned a MOS based on civilian or other service acquired 
skills, this ribbon will be awarded on honorable completion of 4 months 
active service.
    (e) Only one award of the ASR is authorized, regardless of whether 
a soldier completes both officer and enlisted initial entry training.
    (f) For first award only, an individual may be posthumously awarded 
(on or after August 1, 1981) the Army Service Ribbon prior to 
completion of the requisite training or time in service, provided the 
soldier's death is ruled ``Line of duty-Yes.''
    (g) Description. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches in width. It is 
composed of the following vertical stripes: \7/32\ inch Scarlet 67111, 
5/32 Orange 67110, \3/32\ inch Golden Yellow 67104, \1/8\ inch Emerald 
67128, Ultramarine Blue 67118, \1/8\ inch Emerald, \3/32\ inch Golden 
Yellow, \5/32\ inch Orange, and \7/32\ inch Scarlet.


Sec.  578.42  Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon.

    (a) Criteria. The Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) Professional 
Development Ribbon (NPDR) was established by the Secretary of the Army 
on April 10, 1981. It is awarded to members of Active Army, ARNG, and 
USAR soldiers for successful completion of designated NCO professional 
development courses.
    (b) Subsequent awards. The NPDR consist of the basic ribbon with 
numeral devices of 2, 3, or 4, which signify

[[Page 17303]]

satisfactory completion of the respective levels of NCO professional 
development courses. Numerals used in conjunction with this service 
ribbon are the same type as those used for subsequent awards of the Air 
Medal.
    (c) Policy. (1) A change approved in February 1989 completely 
revamped the wear policy of numerals on ribbons and award suspension 
elements. Also, simultaneously U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command 
(TRADOC) announced that the First Sergeant Course is not a recognized 
element of the NCO Professional Development Training System. Because of 
the impact of these two far-reaching policy changes, no grandfathering 
is allowed for Active Army or RC soldiers concerning the wear of 
numerals on the NPDR. Only the numerals 2, 3, and 4 are authorized for 
wear on the ribbon.
    (2) Once a service member has been awarded the NPDR upon graduation 
from Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC) or Primary Leadership 
Development Course-RC, subsequent appropriate numerals will be awarded 
to identify completion of higher level NCO Education System (NCOES) or 
RC NCOES courses.
    (3) Senior NCOs selected by the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy 
(USASMA) who complete equivalent resident courses conducted by the 
other Services will wear the NPDR with numeral 4.
    (4) Soldiers who have been authorized by their local commanders to 
attend local NCO courses or training conducted by the other Services 
and who qualify for or are awarded another Service's training ribbon 
will not wear the other Service's ribbons on the Army uniform.
    (5) Soldiers who have attended NCO development courses, other than 
Senior Level, conducted by another Service while in the Army will not 
be granted Army course equivalency recognition.
    (6) Soldiers must successfully complete one or more of the courses 
listed in paragraph (d) of this section which are further described in 
AR 351-1. Graduates of NCO Academy courses conducted prior to 1976 for 
the Active Army, and 1980 for Reserve Components, will be given credit 
for the Primary Level only.
    (7) Acceptable evidence of graduation is a diploma, certificate, or 
a letter signed by an appropriate service school official.
    (8) Effective March 30, 1989, a service member will be awarded the 
NPDR with the numeral which identifies the highest level of NCOES or 
RC-NCOES successfully completed as follows--Bar Ribbon Device=Primary 
Level; 2=Basic Level; 3=Advanced Level; and 4=Senior Level.
    (d) Requirements. Effective August 1, 1981, all Active Army, Army 
National Guard and Army Reserve soldiers in an active status are 
eligible for this award for satisfactory completion of the respective 
NCOES or RC-NCOES courses as follows:
    (1) Primary level--Primary NCO Course, Combat Arms (PNCOC), Primary 
Leadership Course (PLC), Primary Technical Courses (Service School--
PTC), and Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC) for award of the 
basic ribbon.
    (2) Basic level--Basic NCO Course, Combat Arms (BNCOC), Basic 
Technical Courses (Service School--BTC), and Basic NCO Course (CS/CSS-
BNCOC) for award of numeral 2.
    (3) Advanced level--Advanced NCO Courses (Service School--ANCOC) 
for award of numeral 3.
    (4) Senior level--U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy (USASMA) for 
award of numeral 4. (See paragraph (c)(3) of this section).
    (e ) Special instructions. Special instructions for ARNG and USAR 
are as follows:
    (1) Primary Level--Primary NCO Course, Combat Arms-Reserve 
Components (PNCOC-RC), and effective October 1, 1985 Primary Leadership 
Development Course-Reserve Components (PLDC-RC).
    (2) Basic Level--Basic NCO Course-Reserve Components (CS/CSS BNCOC-
RC) through September 30, 1985 (PNCOC-RC and BNCOC-RC combined for CA/
CS/CSS). Effective October 1, 1987 Basic NCO Course/Reserve Components 
(CA, CS, CSS) as developed and implemented.
    (f) Description. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches in width. It is 
composed of the following vertical stripes: \3/16\ inch Green 67129, 
\1/8\ inch Yellow 67108, \3/16\ inch Green, \1/16\ inch Yellow; \1/4\ 
inch Flag Blue 67124, \1/16\ inch Yellow, \3/16\ inch Green, \1/8\ inch 
Yellow, and \3/16\ inch Green.


Sec.  578.43  Armed Forces Reserve Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Armed Forces Reserve Medal (AFRM) was established 
by Executive Order 10163, as announced in DA Bulletin 15, 1950, and was 
amended by Executive Order 10439, announced in DA Bulletin 3, 1953 and 
Executive Order 13013, dated August 6, 1996.
    (b) The reverse side of this medal is struck in two designs for 
award to personnel whose Reserve Component service has been primarily 
in the organized Reserve or primarily in the National Guard. The first 
design portrays the Minute Man from the Organized Reserve Crest; the 
other design portrays the National Guard insignia.
    (c) The AFRM is awarded for honorable and satisfactory service as a 
member or former member of one or more of the Reserve Components of the 
Armed Forces of the United States, including the Coast Guard Reserve 
and the Marine Corps Reserve, for a period of 10 years under the 
following conditions:
    (1) Such years of service must have been performed within a period 
of 12 consecutive years.
    (2) Each year of active or inactive status honorable service prior 
to July 1, 1949 in any Reserve Component listed in AR 135-180, will be 
credited toward award. For service performed on or after July 1, 1949, 
a member must accumulate, during each anniversary year, a minimum of 50 
retirement points as prescribed in AR 135-180.
    (3) Service in a regular component of the Armed Forces, including 
the Coast Guard, is excluded except that service in a Reserve Component 
which is concurrent in whole or in part with service in a regular 
component will be included. (Example: regular component enlisted 
soldier with a Reserve commission.)
    (4) Any period during which Reserve service is interrupted by one 
or more of the following will be excluded in computing, but will not be 
considered as a break in the period of 12 years:
    (i) Service in a regular component of the Armed Forces.
    (ii) During tenure of office by a State official chosen by the 
voters of the entire State, territory, or possession.
    (iii) During tenure of office of member of the legislative body of 
the United States or of any State, territory, or possession.
    (iv) While service as judge of a court of record of the United 
States, or of any State, territory, possession, or the District of 
Columbia.
    (5) Members called to active duty. On or after August 1, 1990, the 
member was called to active duty and served under 10 U.S.C. 12301(a), 
12302, 12304, 12406, or, in the case of the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve, 
14 U.S.C. 712. The member volunteered and served on active duty in 
support of specific U.S. military operations or contingencies 
designated by the Secretary of Defense, as defined in of 10 U.S.C. 
101(A) (13). AGR members who receive orders changing their current duty 
status (legal authority under which they perform duty), their duty 
location, or assignment to support a contingency operation are eligible 
for the award of the ``M'' Device.

[[Page 17304]]

    (d) The Ten-year-device is authorized for wear on the AFRM to 
denote each succeeding 10-year period as follows:
    (1) A bronze hourglass shall be awarded upon completion of the 
first 10-year period award.
    (2) A silver hourglass shall be awarded upon completion of the 
second 10-year period award.
    (3) A gold hourglass shall be awarded upon completion of the third 
10-year period award.
    (4) A gold hourglass, followed by a bronze hourglass shall be 
awarded upon completion of the fourth 10-year period award.
    (e) ``M'' Device. The ``M'' Device is authorized for wear on the 
AFRM by members of the Reserve Components who are called or who 
volunteer and serve or active duty in support of specific U.S. military 
operations or contingencies designed by the Secretary of Defense, as 
defined in of 10 U.S.C. 101(A)(13).
    (1) When a member qualifies for the ``M'' Device, the Bronze ``M'' 
shall be awarded, positioned on the ribbon and medal, and a number 
shall be included on the ribbon and medal. No more than one AFRM may be 
awarded to any one person. Multiple periods of service during one 
designated contingency (under provisions of Sec.  578.41(c)) shall 
count as one ``M'' Device award.
    (2) If no ``M'' Device is authorized, the appropriate hourglass 
shall be positioned in the center of the ribbon. If no hourglass is 
authorized, the ``M'' Device shall be positioned in the center of the 
ribbon, followed by Arabic numerals indicating the number of times the 
device has been awarded, starting with the second award, no number is 
worn for the first award.
    (3) If both the hourglass and the ``M'' Device are awarded, the 
hourglass shall be positioned in first position on the ribbon (at the 
wearer's right), the ``M'' Device in the middle position, and the 
number of times the ``M'' Device has been awarded in the remaining 
position (at the wearer's left).
    (f) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, 
with a flaming torch in front of a crossed powder horn and a bugle 
within a circle composed of thirteen stars and thirteen rays. On the 
reverse is a different design for each of the reserve components. The 
reverse of all medals have the inscription ``ARMED FORCES RESERVE'' 
around the rim. Organized Reserve: On a wreath, the Lexington Minuteman 
statue as it stands on the Common in Lexington, Massachusetts encircled 
by thirteen stars. National Guard: The National Guard insignia (two 
crossed fasces superimposed on an eagle displayed with wings reversed). 
Air Force Reserve: The crest from the Air Forces seal (on a wreath, an 
eagle displayed in front of a cloud form). Naval Reserve: The center 
device of the Department of the Navy seal (an eagle displayed on an 
anchor in front of a ship in full sail). Marine Corps Reserve: The 
Marine Corps insignia (eagle perched on a globe superimposed on an 
anchor). Coast Guard Reserve: The central design of the Coast Guard 
seal (crossed anchors superimposed by a shield within an annulet).
    (1) The devices are Bronze hourglass to indicate 10 years service; 
silver hourglass to indicate 20 years service; gold hourglass to 
indicate 30 years service; letter ``M'' to indicate mobilization in 
support of U.S. Military operations or contingencies designated by the 
Secretary of Defense; and a numeral to indicate number of times 
mobilized.
    (2) The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of the following 
stripes: \1/16\ inch Bluebird 67117; \1/32\ inch Chamois 67142; \1/16\ 
inch Bluebird; \1/32\ inch Chamois; \1/16\ inch Bluebird; \3/8\ inch 
Chamois; center \1/8\ inch Bluebird; \3/8\ inch Chamois; \1/16\ inch 
Bluebird; \1/32\ inch Chamois; \1/16\ inch Bluebird; \1/32\ inch 
Chamois; and \1/16\ inch Bluebird.


Sec.  578.44  Korean Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Korean Service Medal (KSM) was established by 
Executive Order 10179, dated November 8, 1950. It is awarded for 
service between June 27, 1950 and July 27, 1954, under any of the 
following conditions:
    (1) Within the territorial limits of Korea or in waters immediately 
adjacent thereto.
    (2) With a unit under the operational control of the Commander in 
Chief, Far East, other than one within the territorial limits of Korea, 
which has been designated by the Commander in Chief, Far East, as 
having directly supported the military efforts in Korea.
    (3) Was furnished an individual certificate by the Commander in 
Chief, Far East, testifying to material contribution made in direct 
support of the military efforts in Korea.
    (b) The service prescribed must have been performed under any of 
the following conditions:
    (1) On permanent assignment.
    (2) On temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 nonconsecutive 
days.
    (3) In active combat against the enemy under conditions other than 
those prescribed in paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) of this section, provided 
a combat decoration has been awarded or an individual certificate has 
been furnished by the commander of an independent force or of a 
division, ship, or air group, or comparable or higher unit, testifying 
to such combat credit.
    (c) One bronze service star is authorized for each campaign under 
the following conditions:
    (1) Assigned or attached to and present for duty with a unit during 
the period in which it participated in combat.
    (2) Under orders in the combat zone and in addition meets any of 
the following requirements:
    (i) Awarded a combat decoration.
    (ii) Furnished a certificate by a commanding general of a corps, 
higher unit, or independent force that he actually participated in 
combat.
    (iii) Served at a normal post of duty (as contrasted to occupying 
the status of an inspector, observer, or visitor).
    (iv) Aboard a vessel other than in a passenger status and furnished 
a certificate by the home port commander of the vessel that he served 
in the combat zone.
    (3) Was an evader or escapee in the combat zone or recovered from a 
prisoner-of-war status in the combat zone during the time limitations 
of the campaign. Prisoners of war will not be accorded credit for the 
time spent in confinement or while otherwise in restraint under enemy 
control. (Sec.  578.61 Appurtenances to military decorations)
    (d) The arrowhead device is authorized for wear on the KSM to 
denote participation in a combat parachute jump, helicopter assault 
landing, combat glider landing, or amphibious assault landing, while 
assigned or attached as a member of an organized force carrying out an 
assigned tactical mission. Additional information on the arrowhead 
device is in Sec.  578.61.
    (e) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, a 
Korean gateway, encircled by the inscription ``KOREAN SERVICE''. On the 
reverse is the Korean symbol taken from the center of the Korean 
National flag with the inscription ``UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'' and a 
spray of oak and laurel encircling the design. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ 
inches wide and consisting of the following stripes: \1/32\ inch White 
67101; \19/32\ inch Bluebird 67117; center \1/8\ inch White; \19/32\ 
inch Bluebird; and \1/32\ inch White.


Sec.  578.45  Medal of Humane Action.

    (a) Criteria. The Medal of Humane Action was established by the act 
of Congress July 20, 1949 (63 Stat. 477). It is awarded to members of 
the Armed Forces of the United States and to other persons when 
recommended for meritorious participation, for service

[[Page 17305]]

while participating in the Berlin airlift or in direct support thereof.
    (b) Service must have been for at least 120 days during the period 
June 26, 1948 and September 30, 1949, inclusive, with the following 
prescribed boundaries of area of Berlin airlift operations:
    (1) Northern boundary. 54th parallel north latitude;
    (2) Eastern boundary. 14th meridian east longitude;
    (3) Southern boundary. 48th parallel north latitude;
    (4) Western boundary. 5th meridian west longitude.
    (c) Posthumous award may be made to any person who lost his life 
while, or as a direct result of, participating in the Berlin airlift, 
without regard to the length of such service, if otherwise eligible.
    (d ) See DA Pamphlet 672-1 for the list of Army units entitled to 
the Berlin Airlift Device.
    (e) Description. The medal is Bronze and is 1\1/4\ inches in 
diameter. The miniature medal is \5/8\ inch in diameter. On the 
obverse, in the center, a C-54 airplane (as viewed from above) within a 
wreath of wheat connected at the bottom by a coat of arms. On the 
reverse, an eagle, shield and arrows from the seal of the DOD, beneath 
the words ``FOR HUMANE ACTION'' and above the inscription in four 
lines, ``TO SUPPLY NECESSITIES OF LIFE TO THE PEOPLE OF BERLIN 
GERMANY''. The ribbon to the Medal for Humane Action is 1\3/8\ inches 
in width and consists of the following stripes: \9/32\ inch black; \1/
16\ inch white; \9/32\ inch teal blue; \3/64\ inch white; \1/32\ inch 
scarlet; \3/64\ inch white; \9/32\ inch teal blue; \1/16\ inch white; 
and \9/32\ inch black.


Sec.  578.46  Army of Occupation Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Army of Occupation Medal (AOM) was established by 
War Department General Orders (WDGO) 32, 1946. It is awarded for 
service for 30 consecutive days at a normal post of duty (as contrasted 
to inspector, visitor, courier, escort, passenger, temporary duty, or 
detached service) while assigned to any of the following:
    (1) Army of Occupation of Germany (exclusive of Berlin) between May 
9, 1945 and May 5, 1955. (Service between May 9 and November 8, 1945 
will be counted only if the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign 
Medal was awarded for service before May 9, 1945.)
    (2) Service for the prescribed period with a unit which has been 
designated in DA general orders as having met the requirement for the 
Berlin airlift device.
    (3) Service for which the individual was awarded the Berlin airlift 
device in orders issued by appropriate field authority.
    (4) Army of Occupation of Austria between May 9, 1945 and July 27, 
1955. (Service between May 9 and November 8, 1945 will be counted only 
if the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal was awarded for 
service before May 9, 1945.)
    (5) Army of Occupation of Berlin between May 9, 1945 and October 2, 
1990. (Service between May 9 and November 8, 1945 will be counted only 
if the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal was awarded for 
service before May 9, 1945.)
    (6) Army of Occupation of Italy between May 9, 1945 and September 
15, 1947 in the compartment of Venezia Giulia E. Zara or Province of 
Udine, or with a unit in Italy as designated in DAGO 4, 1947. (Service 
between May 9 and November 8, 1945 will be counted only if the 
European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal was awarded for service 
before May 9, 1945.)
    (7) Army of Occupation of Japan between September 3, 1945 and April 
27, 1952 in the four main islands of Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and 
Kyushu, the surrounding smaller islands of the Japanese homeland, the 
Ryukyu Islands, and the Bonin-Volcano Islands. (Service between 
September 3, 1945 and March 2, 1946 will be counted only if the 
Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for service before September 
3, 1945. In addition, service which meets the requirements for the KSM 
as prescribed in Sec.  578.44 will not be counted in determining 
eligibility for this medal.)
    (8) Army of Occupation of Korea between September 3, 1945 and June 
29, 1949, inclusive. (Service between September 3, 1945 and March 2, 
1946 will be counted only if the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was 
awarded for service before September 3, 1945.)
    (b) Clasps and the Berlin airlift device are authorized for wear on 
the Army of Occupation Medal. They are as follows:
    (1) Army of Occupation Medal Clasp. Soldiers who served in the 
European Theater during the occupation of Europe will wear the clasp 
inscribed ``Germany.'' Soldiers who served in the Far East Theater 
during the occupation of the Far East will wear the Clasp inscribed 
``Japan.'' Clasps bearing other inscriptions are not authorized. (The 
Army of Occupation Medal Clasp is described in Sec.  578.61).
    (2) Berlin Airlift Device. This device is awarded for service of 92 
consecutive days with a unit credited with participation in the Berlin 
airlift, or by competent field authority on an individual basis. 
Qualifying service must have been entirely within the period from June 
26, 1948 to September 30, 1949, inclusive. Orders announcing award of 
the Berlin Airlift device will specifically award the Army of 
Occupation Medal to persons not otherwise eligible therefor.
    (c) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\1/4\ inches in width. On 
the obverse, the Remagen Bridge abutments below the words ``ARMY OF 
OCCUPATION''. On the reverse, Fujiyama with a low hanging cloud over 
two Japanese junks above a wave scroll and the date ``1945''. A Bronze 
clasp \1/8\ inch wide and 1\1/2\ inches in length with the word 
``GERMANY'' or ``JAPAN'' is worn on the suspension ribbon to indicate 
service in Europe or the Far East. NAVY: On the obverse is Neptune 
mounted on a composite creature of a charging horse and a sea serpent 
with a trident grasped in right hand above wave scrolls. Around the 
bottom of the medal are the words ``OCCUPATION SERVICE''. The reverse 
is the same as the China Service Medal and is an eagle perched on the 
shank of a horizontal anchor with a branch of laurel entwined around 
the anchor. On the left is the word ``FOR'' and to the right is the 
word ``SERVICE'' and around the top is the inscription ``UNITED STATES 
NAVY''. MARINE CORPS: The medal for the Marine Corps is the same as the 
Navy, except the inscription around the top of the reverse is ``UNITED 
STATES MARINE CORPS''. The ribbon is the same for both medals and is 
1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of the following stripes: \3/16\ inch 
White 67101; \1/2\ inch Black 67138; \1/2\ inch Scarlet 67111; and \3/
16\ inch White.


Sec.  578.47  World War II Victory Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The World War II Victory Medal was established by the 
act of Congress July 6, 1945 (59 Stat. 461). It is awarded for service 
between December 7, 1941 and December 31, 1946, both dates inclusive.
    (b) Description. The medal is Bronze, 1\3/8\ inches in width. On 
the obverse is a figure of Liberation standing full length with head 
turned to dexter looking to the dawn of a new day, right foot resting 
on a war god's helmet with the hilt of a broken sword in the right hand 
and the broken blade in the left hand, the inscription ``WORLD WAR II'' 
placed immediately below the center. On the reverse are the 
inscriptions ``FREEDOM FROM FEAR AND WANT'' and ``FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND 
RELIGION'' separated by a palm branch, all within a circle composed of 
the words ``UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 1941-1945''. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ 
inches wide and consists of the following

[[Page 17306]]

stripes: \3/8\ inch double rainbow in juxtaposition (blues, greens, 
yellows, reds (center), yellows, greens, and blues); \1/32\ inch White 
67101; center \9/16\ inch Old Glory Red 67156; \1/32\ inch White; and 
\3/8\ inch double rainbow in juxtaposition. The rainbow on each side of 
the ribbon is a miniature of the pattern used in the WWI Victory Medal.


Sec.  578.48  European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal 
was established by Executive Order 9265, announced in WD Bulletin 56, 
1942, as amended by Executive Order 9706, March 15, 1947. It is awarded 
for service within the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater between 
December 7, 1941 and November 8, 1945 under any of the conditions as 
prescribed in Sec.  578.49 (Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal).
    (b) The boundaries of European-African-Middle Eastern Theater are 
as follows:
    (1) Eastern boundary. The eastern boundary is coincident with the 
western boundary of the Asiatic-Pacific Theater (Sec.  578.49).
    (2) Western boundary. The western boundary is coincident with the 
eastern boundary of the American Theater (Sec.  578.50 American 
Campaign Medal).
    (c) One bronze service star is authorized for each campaign under 
the following conditions: (1) Assigned or attached to, and present for 
duty with, a unit during the period in which it participated in combat.
    (2) Under orders in the combat zone and in addition meets any of 
the following requirements:
    (i) Awarded a combat decoration.
    (ii) Furnished a certificate by a commanding general of a corps or 
higher unit or independent force that he actually participated in 
combat.
    (iii) Served at a normal post of duty (as contrasted to occupying 
the status of an inspector, observer, or visitor).
    (iv) Aboard a vessel other than in a passenger status and furnished 
a certificate by the home port commander of the vessel that he served 
in the combat zone.
    (3) Was an evadee or escapee in the combat zone or recovered from a 
prisoner-of-war status in the combat zone during the time limitations 
of the campaign. Prisoners of war will not be accorded credit for the 
time spent in confinement or while otherwise in restraint under enemy 
control.
    (d) The arrowhead is authorized for wear on this medal to denote 
participation in a combat parachute jump, helicopter assault landing, 
combat glider landing, or amphibious assault landing, while assigned or 
attached as a member of an organized force carrying out an assigned 
tactical mission. (The arrowhead is described in Sec.  578.61)
    (e) Description. The Bronze medal is 1\1/4\ inches in width. On the 
obverse is a LST landing craft and troops landing under fire with an 
airplane in the background below the words ``EUROPEAN AFRICAN MIDDLE 
EASTERN CAMPAIGN''. On the reverse, an American bald eagle close 
between the dates ``1941-1945'' and the words ``UNITED STATES OF 
AMERICA''. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of the 
following stripes: \3/16\ inch Brown 67136; \1/16\ inch Irish Green 
67189; \1/16\ inch White 67101; \1/16\ inch Scarlet 67111; \1/4\ inch 
Irish Green; center \1/8\ inch triparted Old Glory Blue 67178, White 
and Scarlet; \1/4\ inch Irish Green; \1/16\ inch White; \1/16\ inch 
Black 67138; \1/16\ inch White; and \3/16\ inch Brown.


Sec.  578.49  Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was established by 
Executive Order 9265 (WD Bulletin 56, November 6, 1942), as amended by 
Executive Order 9706, March 15, 1947. It is awarded for service with 
the Asiatic-Pacific Theater between December 7, 1941 and March 2, 1946 
under any of the following conditions:
    (1) On permanent assignment in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater.
    (2) In a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive 
days or 60 nonconsecutive days.
    (3) In active combat against the enemy and was awarded a combat 
decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a 
corps or higher unit or independent force showing that he actually 
participated in combat.
    (b) Boundaries of Asiatic-Pacific Theater--(1) Eastern boundary. 
Coincident with the western boundary of the American Theater (Sec.  
578.50 American Campaign Medal).
    (2) Western boundary. From the North Pole south along the 60th 
meridian east longitude to its intersection with the east boundary of 
Iran, thence south along the Iran boundary to the Gulf of Oman and the 
intersection of the 60th meridian east longitude, thence south along 
the 60th meridian east longitude to the South Pole.
    (c) One bronze service star is authorized for each campaign under 
the conditions outlined in Sec.  578.48 European-African-Middle Eastern 
Campaign Medal. (Service stars are described in Sec.  578.61).
    (d) The arrowhead is authorized for wear on this medal to denote 
participation in a combat parachute jump, helicopter assault landing, 
combat glider landing, or amphibious assault landing, while assigned or 
attached as a member of an organized force carrying out an assigned 
tactical mission. (The arrowhead is described in Sec.  578.61).
    (e) Description. The Bronze medal is 1\1/4\ inches in width. On the 
obverse is a tropical landing scene with a battleship, aircraft 
carrier, submarine and an aircraft in the background with landing 
troops and palm trees in the foreground with the words ``ASIATIC 
PACIFIC CAMPAIGN'' above the scene. On the reverse, an American bald 
eagle close between the dates ``1941-1945'' and the words ``UNITED 
STATES OF AMERICA''. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of 
the following stripes: \3/16\ inch Yellow 67108; \1/16\ inch White 
67101; \1/16\ inch Scarlet 67111; \1/16\ inch White; \1/4\ inch Yellow; 
center \1/8\ triparted Old Glory Blue 67178, White and Scarlet; \1/4\ 
inch Yellow; \1/16\ inch White; \1/16\ inch Scarlet; \1/16\ inch White; 
and \3/16\ inch Yellow.


Sec.  578.50  American Campaign Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The American Campaign Medal was established by 
Executive Order 9265 (WD Bulletin 56, 1942), as amended by Executive 
Order 9706, March 15, 1947. It is awarded for service within the 
American Theater between December 7, 1941 and March 2, 1946 under any 
of the following conditions:
    (1) On permanent assignment outside the continental limits of the 
United States.
    (2) Permanently assigned as a member of a crew of a vessel sailing 
ocean waters for a period of 30 consecutive days or 60 nonconsecutive 
days.
    (3) Outside the continental limits of the United States in a 
passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 
nonconsecutive days.
    (4) In active combat against the enemy and was awarded a combat 
decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a 
corps, higher unit, or independent force that the soldier actually 
participated in combat.
    (5) Within the continental limits of the United States for an 
aggregate period of 1 year.
    (b) The boundaries of American Theater are as follows:
    (1) Eastern boundary. The eastern boundary is located from the 
North Pole, south along the 75th meridian west longitude to the 77th 
parallel north latitude, thence southeast through Davis Strait to the 
intersection of the 40th parallel north latitude and the 35th

[[Page 17307]]

meridian west longitude, thence south along the meridian to the 10th 
parallel north latitude, thence southeast to the intersection of the 
Equator and the 20th meridian west longitude, thence south along the 
20th meridian west longitude to the South Pole.
    (2) Western boundary. The western boundary is located from the 
North Pole, south along the 141st meridian west longitude to the east 
boundary of Alaska, thence south and southeast along the Alaska 
boundary to the Pacific Ocean, thence south along the 130th meridian to 
its intersection with the 30th parallel north latitude, thence 
southeast to the intersection of the Equator and the 100th meridian 
west longitude, thence south to the South Pole.
    (c) One bronze service star is authorized for wear on the American 
Campaign Medal to denote participation in the antisubmarine campaign. 
The individual must have been assigned or attached to, and present for 
duty with, a unit credited with the campaign. Information on the 
antisubmarine campaign.
    (d) Description. The Bronze medal is 1\1/4\ inches in width. On the 
obverse is a Navy cruiser under full steam with a B-24 airplane flying 
overhead with a sinking enemy submarine in the foreground on three wave 
symbols, in the background a few buildings representing the arsenal of 
democracy, above the scene the words ``AMERICAN CAMPAIGN''. On the 
reverse an American bald eagle close between the dates ``1941-1945'' 
and the words ``UNITED STATES OF AMERICA''. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches 
wide and consists of the following stripes: \3/16\ inch Oriental Blue 
67172; \1/16\ inch White 67101; \1/16\ inch Black 67138; \1/16\ inch 
Scarlet 67111; \1/16\ inch White; \3/16\ inch Oriental Blue; center \1/
8\ triparted Old Glory Blue 67178, White and Scarlet; \3/16\ inch 
Oriental Blue; \1/16\ inch White; \1/16\ inch Scarlet; \1/16\ inch 
Black; \1/16\ inch White; and \3/16\ inch Oriental Blue.


Sec.  578.51  Women's Army Corps Service Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Women's Army Corps Service Medal was established 
by Executive Order 9365, announced in WD Bulletin 17, 1943. It is 
awarded for service in both the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps between 
July 10, 1942 and August 31, 1943 and the Women's Army Corps between 
September 1, 1943 and September 2, 1945.
    (b) Description. A Bronze medal, 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, with 
the head of Pallas Athene in profile facing right, superimposed on a 
sheathed sword cross with oak leaves and a palm branch within a circle 
composed of the words ``WOMEN'S'' in the upper half, and in the lower 
half ``ARMY CORPS''. On the reverse, within an arrangement of 13 stars, 
is a scroll bearing the words ``FOR SERVICE IN THE WOMEN'S ARMY 
AUXILIARY CORPS'' in front of the letters ``U S'' in lower relief. At 
the top and perched on the scroll is an eagle with wings elevated and 
displayed and at the bottom, the date ``1942-1943''. The ribbon is 1\3/
8\ inches wide and consists of the following stripes: \1/8\ inch Old 
Gold 67105; 1\1/8\ inch Mosstone Green 67127; and \1/8\ inch Old Gold.


Sec.  578.52  American Defense Service Medal.

    (a) The American Defense Service Medal (ADSM) was established by 
Executive Order 8808, announced in WD Bulletin 17, 1941. It is awarded 
for service between September 8, 1939 and December 7, 1941 under orders 
to active duty for a period of 12 months or longer.
    (b) A clasp, with the inscription ``Foreign Service'', is worn on 
the ADSM to denote service outside the continental limits of the United 
States, including service in Alaska, as a member of a crew of a vessel 
sailing ocean waters, flights over ocean waters, or as an assigned 
member of a organization stationed outside the continental limits of 
the United States. Possession of a clasp is denoted by the wearing of a 
bronze service star on the service ribbon. (See Sec.  578.61 for 
descriptions of the clasp and service stars.)
    (c) Description. The Bronze medal is 1\1/4\ inches in width. On the 
obverse is a female Grecian figure symbolic of defense, holding in her 
sinister hand an ancient war shield in reverse and her dexter hand 
brandishing a sword above her head, and standing upon a 
conventionalized oak branch with four leaves. Around the top is the 
lettering ``AMERICAN DEFENSE''. On the reverse is the wording ``FOR 
SERVICE DURING THE LIMITED EMERGENCY PROCLAIMED BY THE PRESIDENT ON 
SEPTEMBER 8, 1939 OR DURING THE UNLIMITED EMERGENCY PROCLAIMED BY THE 
PRESIDENT ON MAY 27, 1941'' above a seven-leafed spray of laurel. The 
foreign service clasp is a Bronze bar \1/8\ inch in width and 1\1/2\ 
inches in length with the words ``FOREIGN SERVICE'', with a star at 
each end of the inscription. The foreign service clasp is placed on the 
suspension ribbon of the medal. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and 
consists of the following stripes: \3/16\ inch Golden Yellow 67104; \1/
8\ inch triparted Old Glory Blue 67178; White 67101; and Scarlet 67111; 
center \3/4\ inch Golden Yellow; \1/8\ inch triparted Scarlet; White; 
and Old Glory Blue 67178; and \3/16\ inch Golden Yellow.


Sec.  578.53  Army of Occupation of Germany Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Army of Occupation of Germany Medal was 
established by the act of November 21, 1941, (55 Stat. 781). It is 
awarded for service in Germany or Austria-Hungary between November 12, 
1918 and July 11, 1923.
    (b) Description. The medal is Bronze and 1\1/4\ inches in diameter. 
On the obverse is a profile of General John J. Pershing, encircled by 
four stars indicating his insignia of grade as Commanding General of 
the Field Forces. In the lower left is the inscription ``GENERAL JOHN 
J. PERSHING'' and on the right is a laurel wreath superimposed by a 
sword with the dates ``1918'' and ``1923'' enclosed by the wreath. The 
reverse shows the American eagle perched with outspread wings standing 
on the Castle Ehrenbreitstein, encircled by the words ``U.S. ARMY OF 
OCCUPATION OF GERMANY'' and three stars at the bottom of the medal. The 
ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches in width consisting of the following stripes: 
\1/16\ inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; \1/16\ inch Scarlet 67111; \3/16\ 
inch White 67101; \3/4\ inch Black 67138 (center); \3/16\ inch White; 
\1/16\ inch Scarlet; \1/16\ inch Ultramarine Blue.


Sec.  578.54  World War I Victory Medal.

    (a) The World War I Victory Medal was established by WDGO 48, 1919. 
The medal is awarded for service between April 6, 1917 and November 11, 
1918 or with either of the following expeditions:
    (1) American Expeditionary Forces in European Russia between 
November 12, 1918 and August 5, 1919.
    (2) American Expeditionary Forces Siberia between November 23, 1918 
and April 1, 1920.
    (b) Battle clasps, service clasps, and service stars are authorized 
appurtenances to be worn on the World War I Victory Medal. (See Sec.  
578.61 for specific details.)
    (c) Description. The medal is Bronze and 1\3/8\ inches in diameter. 
On the obverse is a winged Victory, standing full length and full face. 
On the reverse is the inscription ``THE GREAT WAR FOR CIVILIZATION'' 
and the United States shield with the letters ``U.S.'' surmounted by a 
fasces, and on either side the names of the allied and associated 
nations. The lapel button is a five-pointed star \5/8\-inch in diameter 
on a wreath with the letters ``U.S.'' in the center. The medal is 
suspended by a ring from a silk ribbon 1\3/8\ inches in width, 
representing two rainbows

[[Page 17308]]

placed in juxtaposition and having the red in the middle.


Sec.  578.55  Service medals and ribbons no longer available for issue.

    The medals listed below are no longer issued by HQDA. They may be 
purchased if desired from civilian dealers in military insignia and 
some Army exchanges.
    (a) Civil War Campaign Medal. This medal was established by WDGO 
12, 1907. It is awarded for service between April 15, 1861 and April 9, 
1865, or in Texas between April 15, 1861 and August 20, 1866.
    (b) Indian Campaign Medal. This medal was established by WDGO 12, 
1907. It is awarded for service in a campaign against any tribes or in 
any areas listed below, during the indicated period.
    (c) Spanish Campaign Medal. This medal was established by WDGO 5, 
1905. It is awarded for service ashore in, or on the high seas en route 
to, any of the following countries:
    (1) Cuba between May 11 and July 17, 1898.
    (2) Puerto Rico between July 24 and August 13, 1898.
    (3) Philippine Islands between June 30 and August 16, 1898.
    (d) Spanish War Service Medal. This medal was established by the 
act of July 9, 1918 (40 Stat. 873). It is awarded for service between 
April 20, 1898 and April 11, 1899, to persons not eligible for the 
Spanish Campaign Medal.
    (e) Army of Cuban Occupation Medal. This medal was established by 
WDGO 40, 1915. It is awarded for service in Cuba between July 18, 1898 
and May 20, 1902.
    (f) Army of Puerto Rican Occupation Medal. This medal was 
established by War Department Compilation of Orders, changes 15, 
February 4, 1919. It is awarded for service in Puerto Rico between 
August 14 and December 10, 1898.
    (g) Philippine Campaign Medal. This medal was established by WDGO 
5, 1905. It is awarded for service in the Philippine Islands under any 
of the following conditions:
    (1) Ashore between February 4, 1899 and July 4, 1902.
    (2) Ashore in the Department of Mindanao between February 4, 1899 
and December 31, 1904.
    (3) Against the Pulajanes on Leyte between July 20, 1906 and June 
30, 1907, or on Samar between August 2, 1904 and June 30, 1907.
    (4) With any of the following expeditions: (i) Against Pala on Jolo 
between April and May 1905.
    (ii) Against Datu Ali on Mindanao in October 1905.
    (iii) Against hostile Moros on Mount Bud-Dajo, Jolo, March 1906.
    (iv) Against hostile Moros on Mount Bagsac, Jolo, between January 
and July, 1913.
    (v) Against hostile Moros on Mindanao or Jolo between 1910 and 
1913.
    (5) In any action against hostile natives in which U.S. troops were 
killed or wounded between February 4, 1899 and December 31, 1913.
    (h) Philippine Congressional Medal. This medal was established by 
the act of June 29, 1906 (34 Stat. 621). It is awarded for service 
meeting all the following conditions:
    (1) Under a call of the President entered the Army between April 21 
and October 26, 1898.
    (2) Served beyond the date on which entitled to discharge.
    (3) Ashore in the Philippine Islands between February 4, 1899 and 
July 4, 1902.
    (i) China Campaign Medal. This medal was established by WDGO 5, 
1905. It is awarded for service ashore in China with the Peking Relief 
Expedition between June 20, 1900 and May 27, 1901.
    (j) Army of Cuban Pacification Medal. This medal was established by 
WDGO 96, 1909. It is awarded for service in Cuba between October 6, 
1906 and April 1, 1909.
    (k) Mexican Service Medal. This medal was established by WDGO 155, 
1917. It is awarded for service in any of the following expeditions or 
engagements:
    (1) Vera Cruz Expedition in Mexico between April 24 and November 
26, 1914.
    (2) Punitive Expedition in Mexico between March 14, 1916 and 
February 7, 1917.
    (3) Buena Vista, Mexico, December 1, 1917.
    (4) San Bernardino Canon, Mexico, December 26, 1917.
    (5) Le Grulla, Texas, January 8 and 9, 1918.
    (6) Pilares, Mexico, March 28, 1918.
    (7) Nogales, Arizona, November 1 to 5, 1915 or August 27, 1918.
    (8) El Paso, Texas, and Juarez, Mexico, June 15 and 16, 1919.
    (9) Any action against hostile Mexicans in which U.S. troops were 
killed or wounded between April 12, 1911 and February 7, 1917.
    (l) Mexican Border Service Medal. This medal was established by the 
act of July 9, 1918 (40 Stat. 873). It was awarded for service between 
May 9, 1916 and March 24, 1917, or with the Mexican Border Patrol 
between January 1, 1916 and April 6, 1917, to persons not eligible for 
the Mexican Service Medal.


Sec.  578.56  United States Unit Awards.

    (a) Intent. Awards are made to organizations when the heroism 
displayed or meritorious service performed is a result of group effort.
    (b) Announcement. All unit awards approved at HQDA will be 
announced in HQ, DAGO.
    (c) Presentation. Unit awards will be presented at an appropriate 
formal ceremony at the earliest practicable date after the award is 
announced. FM 22-5 prescribes the ceremony for presentation of unit 
awards at a formal review.


Sec.  578.57  Presidential Unit Citation.

    (a) Criteria. The Presidential Unit Citation (PUC) (re-designated 
from the Distinguished Unit Citation on November 3, 1966) is awarded to 
unit of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations 
for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on 
or after December 7,1941. The unit must display such gallantry, 
determination, and esprit de corps in accomplishing its mission under 
extremely difficult and hazardous conditions as to set it apart from 
and above other units participating in the same campaign. The degree of 
heroism required is the same as that which would warrant award of a 
Distinguished Service Cross to an individual. Extended periods of 
combat duty or participation in a large number of operational missions, 
either ground or air is not sufficient. This award will normally be 
earned by units that have participated in single or successive actions 
covering relatively brief time spans. It is not reasonable to presume 
that entire units can sustain Distinguished Service Cross performance 
for extended periods except under the most unusual circumstances. 
Recommendations for units larger than brigade will not be submitted.
    (b) Awarding authorities. Approval authority for award of the PUC 
is the President of the United States who delegated authority to the 
Service Secretaries.
    (c) Award elements. The award elements for the PUC (Army) are as 
follows:
    (1) PUC Streamer (Army);
    (2) PUC Emblem (Army);
    (3) PUC Certificate and Citation;
    (4) DAGO.
    (d) Description. The PUC Emblem is 1 \7/16\ inches wide and \9/16\ 
inch in height. The emblem consists of a \1/16\ inch wide gold frame 
with laurel leaves,

[[Page 17309]]

which encloses an ultramarine blue 67118 ribbon.


Sec.  578.58  Valorous Unit Award.

    (a) Criteria. The Valorous Unit Award (VUA) may be awarded to units 
of the Armed Forces of the United States for extraordinary heroism in 
action against an armed enemy of the United States while engaged in 
military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force 
or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed 
conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is 
not a belligerent party for actions occurring on or after August 3, 
1963.
    (b) Requirements. The VUA requires a lesser degree of gallantry, 
determination, and esprit de corps than that required for the 
Presidential Unit Citation. Nevertheless, the unit must have performed 
with marked distinction under difficult and hazardous conditions in 
accomplishing its mission so as to set it apart from and above other 
units participating in the same conflict. The degree of heroism 
required is the same as that which would warrant award of the Silver 
Star to an individual. Extended periods of combat duty or participation 
in a large number of operational missions, either ground or air is not 
sufficient.
    (c) Unit eligibility. This award will normally be earned by units 
that have participated in single or successive actions covering 
relatively brief time spans. It is not reasonable to presume that 
entire units can sustain Silver Star performance for extended periods 
except under the most unusual circumstances. Recommendations for units 
larger than brigade will not be submitted.
    (d) Awarding authorities. The Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS), G-1 is 
approval authority for the VUA. Recommendations for award of the VUA 
will be forwarded to Commander, USA HRC, ATTN: AHRC-PDO-PA, Alexandria, 
VA 22332-0471, for processing to the DCS, G-1 for final action.
    (e) Award elements. The award elements for the VUA are as follows:
    (1) VUA Streamer;
    (2) VUA Emblem;
    (3) VUA Certificate and Citation;
    (4) DAGO.
    (f) Description. The VUA emblem is 1\7/16\ inches wide and \9/16\ 
inch in height. The emblem consists of a \1/16\ inch wide gold frame 
with laurel leaves which encloses a ribbon of the pattern of the Silver 
Star Medal ribbon centered on a red ribbon. The stripe dimensions of 
the ribbon are: \3/8\ inch old glory red 67156; \1/16\ inch ultramarine 
blue 67118; \1/164\ inch white 67101; \3/32\ inch ultramarine blue 
67118; \3/32\ inch white 67101; center \3/32\ inch old glory red 67156; 
\3/32\ inch white 67101; \3/32\ inch ultramarine blue 67118; \1/64\ 
inch white 67101; \1/16\ inch ultramarine blue; and \3/8\ inch old 
glory red 67156. The streamers are the same pattern as the silver star 
medal ribbon.


Sec.  578.59  Meritorious Unit Commendation.

    (a) Criteria. (1) The Meritorious Unit Commendation (MUC) (Army) 
(previously called the Meritorious Service Unit Plaque) is awarded to 
units for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of 
outstanding services for at least 6 continuous months during the period 
of military operations against an armed enemy occurring on or after 
January 1, 1944. Service in a combat zone is not required, but must be 
directly related to the combat effort. Units based in the continental 
United States are excluded from this award, as are other units outside 
the area of operation. The unit must display such outstanding devotion 
and superior performance of exceptionally difficult tasks as to set it 
apart and above other units with similar missions. The degree of 
achievement required is the same as that which would warrant award of 
the Legion of Merit to an individual. Recommendations for units larger 
than brigade will not be submitted. For services performed during World 
War II, awards will be made only to service units and only for services 
performed between January 1, 1944 and September 15, 1946.
    (2) Effective March 1, 1961, the MUC was authorized for units and/
or detachments of the Armed Forces of the United States for 
exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding 
services for at least 6 continuous months in support of military 
operations. Service(s), as used in this paragraph, is interpreted to 
relate to combat service support type activities and not to the type of 
activities performed by senior headquarters, combat, or combat support 
units.
    (b) Awarding authorities. Approval authority for the MUC is the 
Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS), G-1. Recommendations for award of the MUC 
will be forwarded to Commander, USA HRC, ATTN: AHRC-PDO-PA, Alexandria, 
VA 22332-0471, for processing to the DCS, G-1 for final action.
    (c) Award elements. The award elements for the MUC are as follows:
    (1) MUC Streamer;
    (2) MUC Emblem;
    (3) MUC Certificate and Citation; and
    (4) DAGO.
    (d) Description. The MUC emblem is 1\7/16\ inches wide and \9/16\ 
inch in height. The emblem consists of a \1/16\ inch ide gold frame 
with laurel leaves which encloses a scarlet 67111 ribbon. The 
previously authorized emblem was a gold color embroidered laurel 
wreath, 1\5/8\ inches in diameter on a 2 inch square of olive drab 
cloth.


Sec.  578.60  Army Superior Unit Award.

    (a) Criteria. The Army Superior Unit Award (ASUA) was created in 
1985 to recognize outstanding meritorious performance of a unit during 
peacetime of a difficult and challenging mission under extraordinary 
circumstances. Circumstances may be deemed to be extraordinary when 
they do not represent the typical day-to-day circumstances under which 
the unit normally performs, or may reasonably be expected to perform, 
its peacetime mission. The following additional criteria also applies:
    (1) The unit must display such outstanding devotion and superior 
performance of exceptionally difficult tasks as to set the unit apart 
from and above other units with similar missions. For the purpose of 
this award, peacetime is defined as any period during which wartime or 
combat awards are not authorized in the geographical area in which the 
mission was executed. The ASUA may be awarded to units that distinguish 
themselves while conducting humanitarian missions for a minimum of 30 
days, however, the ASUA will not be awarded if the same act or period 
of service has already been recognized by another unit award.
    (2) The award applies to both TO&E units and TDA organizations of 
battalion size or equivalent. TDA organizations may be considered for 
this award, even if comprised mostly of civilians. As an exception to 
policy, organizations larger than battalion equivalent size may also be 
submitted, but the submitting headquarters must take care to highlight 
the logic associated with the request to justify an exception to 
policy.
    (b) Approval authority. The approval authority for the ASUA is the 
Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS), G-1. Recommendations for award of the ASUA 
will be forwarded to Commander, USA HRC, ATTN: AHRC-PDO-PA, Alexandria, 
VA 22332-0471, for processing to the DCS, G-1 for final action.
    (c) Award elements. The award elements for the ASUA are as follows: 
ASUA Streamer; ASUA Emblem; ASUA Certificate and Citation; DAGO; Army 
Superior Unit Award Lapel Pin. The lapel pin is authorized for issue 
and

[[Page 17310]]

wear by Department of the Army civilians in the employ of the decorated 
unit. Those individuals employed with the unit during the cited period 
may wear the lapel pin permanently. Those currently employed with a 
decorated unit, but who were not employed during the cited period may 
wear the lapel pin on a temporary basis as long as they remain employed 
by the unit. The lapel pin is also authorized for optional purchase and 
wear on civilian clothing by qualified military personnel. Permanent 
and temporary wear is governed by the provisions of AR 670-1.
    (d) Description. The ASUA emblem is 1\7/16\ inches wide and \9/16\ 
inch in height. The emblem consists of a \1/16\ inch wide gold frame 
with laurel leaves which encloses a ribbon of the following pattern: 
\17/32\ inch scarlet 67111; \1/32\ inch yellow 67103; \1/4\ inch green 
67129; \1/32\ inch yellow 67103; and \17/32\ inch scarlet 67111. The 
streamers are the same pattern as the emblem ribbon.


Sec.  578.61  Appurtenances to military decorations.

    Appurtenances are devices affixed to service or suspension ribbons 
or worn instead of medals or ribbons. They are worn to denote 
additional awards, participation in a specific event, or other 
distinguished characteristics of the award. The following is a list of 
authorized appurtenances:
    (a) 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 Air Medal), the Army Reserve Components 
Achievement Medal, 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 and will not fit on a single ribbon, 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 cluster 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 Legion of Merit 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.
    (b) Numerals. Arabic numerals \3/16\ inch in height are issued 
instead of a medal or ribbon for second and succeeding awards of the 
Air Medal, Multinational Force and Observers Medal, Overseas Service 
Ribbon and the Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon. The 
ribbon denotes the first award and numerals starting with the numeral 2 
denote the number of additional awards. The numeral worn on the NCO 
Professional Development Ribbon will denote the highest completed level 
of NCO development. The numerals are to be centered on the suspension 
ribbon of the medal or the ribbon bar.
    (c) ``V'' device. The ``V'' (Valor) device is a bronze block 
letter, V, \1/4\-inch high with serifs at the top of the members. It is 
worn to denote participation in acts of heroism involving conflict with 
an armed enemy. It was originally worn only on the suspension and 
service ribbons of the Bronze Star Medal to denote an award made for 
heroism (valor). Effective February 29, 1964, the ``V'' device was also 
authorized for wear on the Air Medal and Army Commendation Medal for 
heroic acts or valorous deeds not warranting awards of the 
Distinguished Flying Cross or the Bronze Star Medal with ``V'' device. 
Effective June 25, 1963, the ``V'' device was authorized additionally 
for wear on the Joint Service Commendation Medal when the award is for 
acts of valor (heroism) during participation in combat operations. In 
the case of multiple ``V'' devices for the same award, only one ``V'' 
device is worn on the service ribbons.
    (d) ``M'' device. The ``M'' (Mobilization) Device is a bronze 
letter, M, \1/4\-inch high with serifs at the bottom of the members. It 
is authorized for wear on the Armed Forces Reserve Medal by members of 
the Reserve Components who are called or who volunteer and serve on 
active duty in support of specific U.S. Military operations or 
contingencies designated by the Secretary of Defense, as defined in 10 
U.S.C. 101(a) (13). AGR members who receive orders changing their 
current duty status (legal authority under which they perform duty), 
their duty location, or assignment to support a contingency operation 
are also eligible for award of the ``M'' Device.
    (e) Clasps. They are authorized for wear on the Army Good Conduct 
Medal, World War I Victory Medal, American Defense Service Medal, Army 
of Occupation Medal, and Antarctica Service Medal. All clasps, except 
the Army Good Conduct Medal clasp, are worn only on the suspension 
ribbon of the medal. The clasps are described as follows:
    (1) The Army Good Conduct Medal clasp is a bar \1/8\-inch by 1\3/8\ 
inches, of bronze, silver or gold, with loops indicative of each period 
of service. Paragraph 4-9 describes the clasps authorized for second 
and subsequent awards of the Army Good Conduct Medal.
    (2) The World War I Victory Medal battle clasps is a bronze bar \1/
8\-inch by 1\1/2\ inches with the name of the campaign or the words 
``Defensive Sector,'' and with a star at each end of the inscription. 
The campaigns are as follows:
    (i) Cambrai;
    (ii) Somme, Defensive;
    (iii) Lys;
    (iv) Aisne;
    (v) Montdidier-Noyon;
    (vi) Champagne-Marne;
    (vii) Aisne-Marne;
    (viii) Somme, Offensive;
    (ix) Oise-Aisne;
    (x) Ypres-Lys;
    (xi) St. Mihiel;
    (xii) Meuse-Argonne;
    (xiii) Vittorio-Veneto;
    (xiv) Defensive Sector.
    (3) The World War I Victory Medal service clasp is a bronze bar \1/
8\-inch by 1\1/2\ inches with the name of the country which the service 
was performed inscribed thereon. The service clasps authorized are as 
follows:
    (i) England;
    (ii) France;
    (iii) Italy;
    (iv) Russia;
    (v) Siberia.
    (4) The American Defense Service Medal clasp is a bronze bar \1/8\-
inch by 1\1/2\ inches with the words ``Foreign Service'' and with a 
star at each end of the inscription.
    (5) The Army of Occupation Medal clasp is a bronze bar \1/8\-inch 
by 1\1/2\ inches with the word ``Germany'' or ``Japan'' inscribed 
thereon, to denote occupation duty rendered in Europe and/or the Far 
East.
    (6) The Antarctica Service Medal is a clasp bearing the words 
``Wintered Over'' for wear on the suspension ribbon of the medal 
awarded in bronze for the first winter, in gold for the second winter, 
and in silver for the third winter.
    (f) Service stars. Are worn on campaign and service ribbons to 
denote an additional award. The service star is a bronze or silver 
five-pointed star \3/16\-inch in diameter. A silver star is worn 
instead of five bronze service stars. The bronze service star is also 
affixed to the parachutist badge to denote

[[Page 17311]]

participation in a combat parachutist jump, retroactive to December 7, 
1941. See Sec.  578.74 on Parachutist badges for criteria for award of 
the combat parachutist badge. See AR 670-1 for proper wear of the 
service stars. Service stars are authorized for wear on the following 
campaign and service medals and or ribbons:
    (1) World War I Victory Medal;
    (2) American Defense Service Medal;
    (3) American Campaign Medal;
    (4) Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal;
    (5) European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal;
    (6) Korean Service Medal;
    (7) Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal;
    (8) Vietnam Service Medal;
    (9) National Defense Service Medal;
    (10) Humanitarian Service Medal;
    (11) Prisoner of War Medal;
    (12) Southwest Asia Service Medal;
    (13) Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.
    (g) Arrowhead. The arrowhead is a bronze replica of an Indian 
arrowhead \1/4\-inch high. It denotes participation in a combat 
parachute jump, helicopter assault landing, combat glider landing, or 
amphibious assault landing, while assigned or attached as a member of 
an organized force carrying out an assigned tactical mission. A soldier 
must actually exit the aircraft or watercraft, as appropriate, to 
receive assault credit. Individual assault credit is tied directly to 
the combat assault credit decision for the unit to which the soldier is 
attached or assigned at the time of the assault. Should a unit be 
denied assault credit, no assault credit will accrue to the individual 
soldiers of that unit. It is worn on the service and suspension ribbons 
of the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign, European-African-Middle Eastern 
Campaign, Korean Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Armed Forces 
Expeditionary Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary. Only 
one arrowhead will be worn on any ribbon.
    (h) Ten-Year Device. The Ten-year device is authorized for wear on 
the Armed Forces Reserve Medal to denote each succeeding 10-year period 
as follows: (1) A bronze hourglass shall be awarded upon completion of 
the first 10-year period award.
    (2) A silver hourglass shall be awarded upon completion of the 
second 10-year period award.
    (3) A gold hourglass shall be awarded upon completion of the third 
10-year period award.
    (4) A gold hourglass, followed by a bronze hourglass shall be 
awarded upon completion of the fourth 10-year period award.
    (i) Berlin Airlift Device. A gold colored metal miniature of a C-54 
type aircraft of \3/8\-inch wingspan, other dimensions proportionate. 
It is worn on the service and suspension ribbons of the Army of 
Occupation Medal. (See Sec.  578.46 Army of Occupation Medal)
    (j) Army Astronaut Device. A gold colored device, \7/16\-inches in 
length, consisting of a star emitting three contrails encircled by an 
elliptical orbit. It is awarded by the Chief of Staff, Army, to 
personnel who complete a minimum of one operational mission in space 
(50 miles above earth) and is affixed to the appropriate Army Aviator 
Badge, Flight Surgeon Badge, or Aviation Badge awarded to the 
astronaut. Individuals who have not been awarded one of the badges 
listed above but who meet the other astronaut criteria will be awarded 
the basic Aviation Badge with Army Astronaut Device.


Sec.  578.62  Service ribbons.

    A ribbon identical in color with the suspension ribbon of the 
service medal it represents, attached to a bar 1\3/8\ inches in width 
and \3/8\ inch in length, equipped with a suitable attaching device. A 
service ribbon is issued with each service medal.


Sec.  578.63  Lapel buttons.

    (a) Lapel buttons are miniature replicas of military decorations; 
service medals and ribbons; and identification badges. Lapel buttons 
are worn only on civilian clothing. The buttons will be worn on the 
left lapel of civilian clothing for male personnel and in a similar 
location for female personnel.
    (b) Lapel buttons for military decorations. Lapel buttons for 
military decorations are issued in the following two forms:
    (1) A rosette, \1/2\-inch in diameter, for the Medal of Honor.
    (2) A colored enamel replica (\1/8\-inch by \21/32\-inch) for the 
service ribbon for other decorations.
    (c) Lapel buttons for badges. The only badges that have an approved 
lapel button are certain identification badges as follows:
    (1) Presidential Service Badge;
    (2) Vice Presidential Service Badge;
    (3) Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge;
    (4) Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge; and
    (5) Army Staff Identification Badge.
    (d) World War I Victory Button. A five-pointed star \5/8\-inch in 
diameter on a wreath with the letters ``US'' in the center. For persons 
wounded in action, the lapel button is silver; for all others, the 
lapel button is bronze. Eligibility requirements are the same for the 
World War I Victory Medal.
    (e) Honorable Service Lapel Button (World War II Victory Medal). A 
button of gold-color metal consists of an eagle perched within a ring 
composed of a chief and 13 vertical stripes. The button is \7/16\-inch 
high and \5/8\-inch wide. Eligibility requirements are honorable 
Federal military service between September 8, 1939 and December 31, 
1946.
    (f) Lapel button for service prior to September 8, 1939. (Not 
issued or sold by the Department of the Army.) A button \7/16\-inch 
high and \5/8\-inch wide, of gold-color metal consists of an eagle 
perched within a ring which displays seven white and six red vertical 
stripes and a blue chief bearing the words ``National Defense.'' It may 
be worn only by a person who served honorably before September 8, 1939 
as an enlisted man, warrant officer, nurse, contract surgeon, 
veterinarian, or commissioned officer, in the Regular Army or a 
Citizen's Military Training Camp for 2 months, or in the National 
Guard, Enlisted Reserve Corps, or Senior ROTC for 1 year, or in junior 
ROTC for 2 years.
    (g) Army Lapel Button. The Army Lapel Button is a gratuitous issue 
item made up of a minute man in gold color on a red enamel disk 
surrounded by 16-pointed gold rays with an outside diameter of \9/16\-
inch. Eligibility requirements are as follows:
    (1) Soldiers transitioning with an honorable characterization of 
service (those being transferred to another component for completion of 
a military service obligation, and those receiving an Honorable 
Discharge Certificate).
    (2) Non-adverse separation provision.
    (3) Minimum 9 months continuous service--a break is 24 hours or 
more.
    (4) Active Federal service on or after April 1, 1984; or, service 
in a Ready Reserve unit organized to serve as a unit (National Guard 
unit or Army Reserve troop program unit) on or after July 1, 1986.
    (5) Retroactive issuance is not authorized.
    (6) No soldier separating from the Service is to be awarded more 
than one Army Lapel Button.
    (h) U.S. Army Retired Lapel Button. Retired Army personnel who are 
in possession of DD Form 2 (U.S. Uniformed Services Identification 
Card) (Retired)) are eligible to wear the Army Retired Lapel Button. 
Commanders will present the U.S. Army Retired Lapel Button to Army 
personnel at an appropriate ceremony before they retire.
    (i) Active Reserve Lapel Button. The Active Reserve Lapel Button is 
authorized for active membership in the Ready Reserve of the Army. It 
is made up of a minute man in gold color on a

[[Page 17312]]

bronze color base and is \11/16\-inch in length. The button is an 
optional purchase item, not issued or sold by the Department of the 
Army. It is not worn on the uniform.
    (j) Lapel Button for Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army (KATUSA). 
The KATUSA Lapel Button (KLB) was approved by the Secretary of the Army 
on March 22, 1988 as a gratuitous issue item. The KLB is a round disk 
with an outside diameter of \9/16\-inch that is comprised of a Korean 
Taeguk that consists of the characteristics from both the U.S. and 
Republic of Korea National Flags resting on a white background. The 
words ``Honorable Service * KATUSA'' are situated on the border of the 
outer edge of the KLB.
    (1) The following requirements must be met to be eligible for award 
of the KLB:
    (i) Individual must have been a Republic of Korea Army soldier who 
has been assigned as a KATUSA soldier to a U.S. Army unit or activity 
for a minimum of 9 months of continuous honorable active service on or 
after March 22, 1988.
    (ii) Must be separating from active duty with the Republic of Korea 
Army.
    (iii) Disqualifying characterization of service for the award of 
the KLB is identical with that used for the Army Lapel Button.
    (2) Issuance requirements are as follows:
    (i) The KLB will be awarded to all eligible KATUSA soldiers.
    (ii) The U.S. Army unit commander will coordinate with the 
appropriate Republic of Korea staff officer/NCO to obtain Republic of 
Korea Army concurrence prior to presentation of the KLB.
    (iii) Presentation will normally be made by the U.S. Army unit 
commander to which last assigned prior to separation from active 
service or by his designated U.S. Army commissioned officer 
representative during a troop formation or other appropriate ceremony.
    (3) Orders will not be published to confirm award of the KLB.
    (k) Gold Star Lapel Button. The Gold Star Lapel Button was 
established by Act of Congress (Pub. L. 80-306) August 1, 1947, 
codified at 10 U.S.C. 1126 in order to provide an appropriate 
identification for widows, widowers, parents, and next of kin of 
members of the Armed Forces of the United States who lost their lives 
during World War I, April 6, 1917 to March 3, 1921; World War II, 
September 8, 1939 to July 25, 1947; any subsequent period of armed 
hostilities in which the United States was engaged before July 1, 1958 
(United Nations action in Korea, June 27, 1950 to July 27, 1954); or 
who lost their lives after June 30, 1958, while engaged in an action 
against an enemy of the United States; or while engaged in military 
operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or while 
serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict in 
which the United States is not a belligerent party against an opposing 
Armed Force; or who lost or lose their lives after March 28, 1973, as a 
result of an international terrorist attack against the United States 
or a foreign nation friendly to the United States, recognized as such 
an attack by the Secretary of Defense; or while serving in a military 
operation while serving outside the United States (including the 
commonwealths, territories, and possessions of the United States) as 
part of a peacekeeping force.
    (1) The Gold Star Lapel Button consists of a gold star on a purple 
circular background, bordered in gold and surrounded by gold laurel 
leaves. On the reverse is the inscription ``United States of America, 
Act of Congress, August 1966'' with space for engraving the initials of 
the recipient. Gold Star Lapel Buttons inscribed August 1947 may be 
issued until present inventories are exhausted.
    (2) One Gold Star Lapel Button will be furnished without cost to 
the widow or widower, to each of the parents, each child, stepchild, 
child through adoption, brother, half brother, sister, and half sister 
of a member of the Armed Forces who lost his or her life while in the 
active military service during the periods indicated above. The term 
``widow or widower'' includes those who have since remarried, and the 
term ``parents'' includes mother, father, stepmother, stepfather, 
mother through adoption, father through adoption, and foster parents 
who stood in loco parentis. Request for replacement of the Gold Star 
Lapel Button (lost, destroyed or unserviceable) will be submitted on DD 
Form 3 (Application for Gold Star Lapel Button) to NPRC (see Sec.  
578.16 (a)(3)).
    (3) Each casualty area commander and major overseas commander will 
stock Gold Star Lapel Buttons and ensure that survivor assistance 
officers are provided them for issue to eligible next of kin. Normally, 
delivery should not be made prior to the first visit to the next of kin 
following interment.
    (l) Lapel Button for Next of Kin of Deceased Personnel. The Lapel 
Button, Next of Kin of Deceased Personnel is provided to widows(ers), 
parents, and primary next of kin of armed services members who lose 
their lives while serving on active duty or while assigned in an Army 
Reserve or Army National Guard unit in a drill status.
    (1) The button consists of a gold star within a circle 
(commemorating honorable service) surrounded by sprigs of oak 
(referring to the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps).
    (2) One lapel button will be furnished without cost to the widow or 
widower, to each of the parents, each child, stepchild, child through 
adoption, brother, half brother, sister, and half sister of a member of 
the Armed Forces who lost his or her life while on active duty. The 
term widow or widower includes those who have since remarried, and the 
term parents includes mother, father, stepmother, stepfather, mother 
through adoption, father through adoption, and foster parents who stood 
in place of a parent.
    (3) Casualty area commands will stock the button and ensure that 
survivor assistance officers issue them to eligible next of kin.
    (4) The Lapel Button, Next of Kin of Deceased Personnel is 
authorized for issue retroactive to March 29, 1973. The next of kin of 
soldiers who died since that date may request issue of the button by 
writing to the NPRC (see Sec.  578.16(a)(3)). Furnish the name, grade, 
SSN, and date of death of the deceased soldier. The names and 
relationships of the next of kin must also be provided.
    (m) Army Superior Unit Award Lapel Pin. The Army Superior Unit 
Award Lapel Pin is authorized for issue and wear by DA civilians in the 
employ of a unit awarded the Army Superior Unit Award. The lapel pin is 
also authorized for optional purchase and wear on civilian clothing by 
qualified military personnel.


Sec.  578.64  Miniature decorations.

    (a) Decorations. Miniature replicas of all medals except the Medal 
of Honor and the Legion of Merit in the Degrees of Chief Commander and 
Commander are authorized for wear on certain uniforms instead of the 
issued medals. Miniatures of decorations are issued only to foreign 
nationals and with the award of the Distinguished Service Medal to U.S. 
personnel.
    (b) Miniature badges. Replicas of combat and special skill badges 
in miniature size are authorized for wear on certain uniforms instead 
of the full-size badges.


Sec.  578.65  Supply, service, and requisition of medals and badges.

    (a) Medals and appurtenances listed are issued by DA:
    (1) Decorations;

[[Page 17313]]

    (2) Service medals;
    (3) Service ribbons;
    (4) Palms;
    (5) Rosettes;
    (6) Clasps;
    (7) Arrowheads;
    (8) Service stars;
    (9) French Fourragere;
    (10) Netherlands Orange Lanyard;
    (11) Army Good Conduct Medals;
    (12) Oak Leaf Cluster;
    (13) Numerals;
    (14) Letter ``V'' devices;
    (15) Certificate for decorations;
    (16) Lapel buttons for decorations;
    (17) Miscellaneous lapel buttons listed in Lapel buttons for badges 
and Lapel buttons for service;
    (18) Ten-year devices;
    (19) Berlin Airlift devices;
    (20) Containers for decorations;
    (21) Miniature decorations to foreign military personnel;
    (22) Letter ``V'' Device;
    (23) Letter ``M'' Device;
    (b) Badges and appurtenances listed below are issued by Department 
of the Army:
    (1) Combat and special skill badges;
    (2) Basic Marksmanship Designation Badges;
    (3) Distinguished marksmanship designation badges;
    (4) Excellence in competition badges;
    (5) Basic marksmanship qualification badges and bars;
    (6) Army Staff Identification Badge;
    (7) The Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge (an 
item of organizational equipment);
    (8) Army ROTC Nurse Cadet Program Identification Badge;
    (9) Drill Sergeant Identification Badge;
    (10) U.S. Army Recruiter Identification Badge;
    (11) Career Counselor Badge;
    (12) Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Identification 
Badge;
    (13) U.S. Army Reserve Recruiter Identification Badge.


Sec.  578.66  Original issue or replacement.

    (a) General. All U.S. Army medals are presented without cost to an 
awardee. Replacement of medals or service ribbons for individuals not 
on active duty may be made at cost price. Requests will be honored from 
the original recipient of the award, or if deceased, from his or her 
primary next of kin in the following order: surviving spouse, eldest 
surviving child, father or mother, eldest surviving brother or sister, 
or eldest surviving grandchild.
    (b) Issue or replacement of service medals and service ribbons 
antedating the World War I Victory Medal is no longer accomplished. 
These awards are not available from the supply system, but may be 
purchased from private dealers in military insignia.
    (c) No money should be mailed until instructions are received by 
NPRC. Requests for medals should be directed to the following addresses 
as shown below.
    (1)(i) Request for: Personnel in active Federal military service or 
in the Army National Guard or U.S. Army Reserve.
    (ii) Submit to: Unit Commander.
    (2)(i) Request for: Medals on behalf of individuals having no 
current U.S. Army status or deceased prior to October 1, 2002.
    (ii) Submit to: National Personnel Records Center, 9700 Page 
Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100.
    (3)(i) Request for: Medals for individuals who retired, were 
discharged or died (except general officers) after October 1, 2002.
    (ii) Submit to: Commander, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, ATTN: 
AHRC-CC-B, 1 Reserve Way, St. Louis, MO 63132-5200.
    (4)(i) Request for: Personnel receiving retired pay, except general 
officers.
    (ii) Submit to: National Personnel Records Center, 9700 Page 
Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100.
    (5)(i) Request for: Retired general officers.
    (ii) Submit to: Commander, USA HRC, ATTN: AHRC-PDO-PA, 200 Stovall 
Street, Alexandria, VA 22332-0471.
    (d) Issue of medals, other than Army. Medals and appurtenances 
awarded while in active Federal service in one of the other U.S. 
military Services will be issued on individual request to appropriate 
Service as shown below.
    (1)(i) Request for: Navy awards.
    (ii) Submit to: Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Awards, 
Code: 09B33, 2000 Navy Pentagon, Washington, DC 20350-2000.
    (2)(i) Request for: Air Force awards.
    (ii) Submit to: Commander, U.S. Air Force Personnel Center/DPPPRA, 
550 C Street West, Suite 12, Randolph Air Force Base, TX 78150-6001.
    (3)(i) Request for: Marine Corps awards.
    (ii) Submit to: Commandant, U.S. Marine Corps, Manpower and Reserve 
Affairs, Code: MMMA, 3280 Russell Road, Quantico, VA 22134-5103.
    (4)(i) Request for: Coast Guard awards.
    (ii) Submit to: Commandant, United States Coast Guard, 2100 Second 
Street, SW., ATTN: G-PS-5/TP41, Washington, DC 20593-0001.


Sec.  578.67  Manufacture, sale, and illegal possession.

    Sections 507.1 to 507.8 of this chapter prescribe:
    (a) Restrictions on manufacture and sale of service medals and 
appurtenance by civilians.
    (b) Penalties for illegal possession and wearing of service medals 
and appurtenances.


Sec.  578.68  Badges and tabs; general.

    (a) Purpose. The purpose of awarding badges is to provide for 
public recognition by tangible evidence of the attainment of a high 
degree of skill, proficiency, and excellence in tests and competition, 
as well as in the performance of duties. Awards of badges promote 
esprit de corps, and provide an incentive to greater effort, thus 
becoming instrumental in building and maintaining morale. Types of 
badges authorized to be awarded as hereinafter prescribed, are combat 
and special skill badges, marksmanship qualification badges, 
identification badges and tabs.
    (b) Recommendations and approval authority. (1) Recommendations for 
awards of badges will be submitted by memorandum or DA Form 4187 
through command channels to the commander authorized to make the award.
    (2) Badges may be approved and awarded in the field only by the 
commanders authorized to award the respective badge.
    (3) Award of badges to Active Army personnel which cannot be 
resolved by local commanders will be forwarded through command channels 
to HQ, USA HRC, (see address Sec.  578.3(c)).
    (c) Posthumous awards. When an individual who has qualified for a 
badge dies before the award is made, the badge may be presented to the 
next of kin.
    (d) Retroactive awards. Retroactive awards of the Combat 
Infantryman Badge and the Combat Medical Badge may be made to fully 
qualified individuals. Such awards will not be made except where 
evidence of injustice is presented. Active duty soldiers will forward 
their applications through command channels to HQ, AHRC, (see address 
Sec.  578.3(c)). Reserve Component soldiers should address their 
application to Commander, USA HRC-St. Louis, One Reserve Way, St. 
Louis, MO 63132-5200. Retirees and veterans should address their 
application to the NPRC (see Sec.  578.16(a)(3) for address).
    (e) Announcement of awards. Permanent awards of badges, except 
basic marksmanship qualification badges, identification badges, and the 
Physical Fitness Badge, will be announced in Permanent Orders by 
commanders authorized to make the award or Permanent Orders of HQDA.
    (f) Presentation of awards. Whenever practical, badges will be 
presented to

[[Page 17314]]

military personnel in a formal ceremony. Presentations should be made 
as promptly as practical following announcement of awards, and when 
possible, in the presence of the troops with whom the recipients were 
serving at the time of the qualification.
    (g) Supply of badges. (1) Badges listed below are issued by the DA.
    (i) Combat and special skill badges;
    (ii) Basic Marksmanship Designation Badges;
    (iii) Distinguished marksmanship designation badges;
    (iv) Excellence in competition badges;
    (v) Basic marksmanship qualification badges and bars;
    (vi) Army Staff Identification Badge;
    (vii) The Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge 
(an item of organizational equipment);
    (viii) Army ROTC Nurse Cadet Program Identification Badge;
    (ix) Drill Sergeant Identification Badge;
    (x) U.S. Army Recruiter Identification Badge;
    (xi) Career Counselor Badge;
    (xii) Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Identification 
Badge;
    (xiii) U.S. Army Reserve Recruiter Identification Badge.
    (2) Items not issued or sold by the DA:
    (i) Identification badges, except as provided in paragraph (g)(1) 
of this section;
    (ii) Lapel buttons for badges;
    (iii) Certificates for badges;
    (iv) Foreign badges;
    (v) Miniature Combat Infantryman, Expert Infantryman, Combat 
Medical, Expert Field Medical, and Aviation badges;
    (vi) Dress miniature badges. (Miniatures may be purchased from 
dealers in military insignia.)
    (h) Requisition. Combat and special skill badges, basic 
marksmanship qualification badges, and authorized bars, may be 
requisitioned by commanders through normal channels. Requisitions will 
contain a statement that issue is to be made to authorized personnel. 
Commanders authorized to make the award may requisition bulk delivery 
of badges to meet needs for 60 days. Care should be taken that 
excessive stocks are not requisitioned. Initial issue or replacement 
for a badge lost, destroyed, or rendered unfit for use without fault or 
neglect on the part of the person to whom it was awarded, will be made 
upon application, without charge to military personnel on active duty 
and at stock fund standard price to all others.
    (i) Character of service. A badge will not be awarded to any person 
who, subsequent to qualification therefore, has been dismissed, 
dishonorably discharged, or convicted of desertion by court-martial.
    (j) Special guidance. (1) Effective September 30, 1986, local 
established special skill badges are no longer authorized for wear. 
Authority for major commanders to approve local badges is rescinded.
    (2) The wear of badges issued by other Services is governed by AR 
670-1. Those cases that cannot be resolved should be forwarded to 
Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1, ATTN: DAPE-HR-S, 300 Army 
Pentagon, Washington, DC 20310-0300.
    (3) Authority must be obtained from HQ, USA HRC (AHRC-PDO-PA) 
before wearing on the Army uniform badges awarded by other U.S. 
Services and the Director of Civilian Marksmanship.
    (k) To whom awarded. (1) The Combat Infantryman Badge may be 
awarded only to members of the U.S. Army.
    (2) The Combat Medical Badge may be awarded only to members of the 
U.S. Army, Navy, or Air Force.
    (3) Awards of U.S. Army badges to foreign military personnel will 
be made only with the prior consent of his or her Government and upon 
completion of the full requirements established for each badge. Foreign 
military personnel may also qualify for Army badges while attending 
U.S. Army service schools or while participating in combined or joint 
operations.
    (4) All other special skill badges may be earned by U.S. military 
personnel who qualify while performing honorable active duty or Reserve 
service in an active status or while formally assigned or attached to 
the U.S. Army.
    (5) In certain cases, civilian personnel may be awarded special 
skill badges provided specific criteria are met. Requests or 
recommendations for award of special skill badges to civilians should 
be directed to designated approval authorities or Commander, USA HRC 
(see Sec.  578.3 (c) for address).
    (6) Table 9 below lists the U.S. Army combat and special skill 
badges authorized and who is authorized to be awarded each badge.

                                       Table 9.--U.S. Army Badges and Tabs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Order of precedence may be awarded       Members of other      Department of the army      Foreign military
                 to:                           services                civilians                personnel
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Combat Infantryman Badge.............  YES....................  NO.....................  YES
Combat Medical Badge.................  YES....................  NO.....................  NO
Combat Action Badge..................  YES....................  NO.....................  YES
Expert Infantryman Badge.............  NO.....................  NO.....................  NO
Expert Field Medical Badge...........  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Parachutist Badges...................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Parachute Rigger Badge...............  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Military Free-Fall Parachutist Badge.  NO.....................  NO.....................  NO
Army Aviator Badge...................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Astronaut Device.....................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Flight Surgeon Badge.................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Divers Badges........................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Special Operations Diver Badge.......  YES....................  NO.....................  NO
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badges...  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Pathfinder Badge.....................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Air Assault Badge....................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Aviation Badge.......................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Driver & Mechanic Badge..............  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Ranger Tab...........................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
Special Forces Tab...................  YES....................  YES....................  YES

[[Page 17315]]

 
Sapper Tab...........................  YES....................  YES....................  YES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. Badges authorized to foreign military personnel will be made only after obtaining prior consent from his or
  her Government and after completion of the full requirements established for each badge.
2. DA civilians must complete full requirements for the respective badge before it is awarded.

Sec.  578.69  Combat Infantryman Badge.

    (a) Specific eligibility requirements. There are basically three 
requirements for award of the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB):
    (1) The Soldier must be an infantryman satisfactorily performing 
infantry duties.
    (2) Must be assigned to an infantry unit during such time as the 
unit is engaged in active ground combat.
    (3) Must actively participate in such ground combat. (Campaign or 
battle credit alone is not sufficient for award of the CIB.)
    (b) The specific eligibility criteria for the CIB requires that:
    (1) A Soldier must be an Army infantry or special forces officer 
(SSI 11 or 18) in the grade of colonel or below, or an Army enlisted 
Soldier or warrant officer with an infantry or Special Forces Military 
Occupational Specialties (MOS), who, subsequent to December 6, 1941, 
has satisfactorily performed duty while assigned or attached as a 
member of an infantry, ranger or special forces unit of brigade, 
regimental, or smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in 
active ground combat. Eligibility for Special Forces personnel in MOS 
18B, 18E, 18F, and 18Z (less Special Forces medical sergeant) accrues 
from December 20, 1989. Retroactive awards of the CIB to Special Forces 
personnel are not authorized prior to December 20, 1989.
    (2) A recipient must be personally present and under hostile fire 
while serving in an assigned infantry or Special Forces primary duty, 
in a unit actively engaged in ground combat with the enemy. The unit in 
question can be of any size smaller than brigade. For example, 
personnel possessing an infantry MOS in a rifle squad of a cavalry 
platoon in a cavalry troop would be eligible for award of the CIB. 
Battle or campaign participation credit alone is not sufficient; the 
unit must have been in active ground combat with the enemy during the 
period.
    (3) Personnel with other than an infantry or Special Forces MOS are 
not eligible, regardless of the circumstances. The infantry or Special 
Forces SSI or MOS does not necessarily have to be the Soldier's primary 
specialty, as long as the Soldier has been properly trained in infantry 
or Special Forces tactics, possesses the appropriate skill code, and is 
serving in that specialty when engaged in active ground combat as 
described above. Commanders are not authorized to make any exceptions 
to this policy.
    (4) Awards will not be made to general officers or to members of 
headquarters companies of units larger in size than brigade.
    (5) On or after September 18, 2001, the following rules apply:
    (i) A Soldier must be an Army infantry or special forces (SSI 11 or 
18) in the grade of colonel or below, or an Army enlisted Soldier or 
warrant officer with an infantry or special forces MOS, who has 
satisfactorily performed duty while assigned or attached as a member of 
an infantry, ranger or special forces unit of brigade, regimental, or 
smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in active ground 
combat, to close with and destroy the enemy with direct fire.
    (ii) A Soldier must be personally present and under fire while 
serving in an assigned infantry or Special Forces primary duty, in a 
unit engaged in active ground combat, to close with and destroy the 
enemy with direct fire.
    (iii) Soldiers possessing MOS of 18D (Special Forces Medical 
Sergeant) who satisfactorily perform special forces duties while 
assigned or attached to a special forces unit of brigade, regimental, 
or smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in active 
ground combat may be awarded the CIB. These Soldiers must have been 
personally present and engaged in active ground combat, to close with 
and destroy the enemy with direct fires. Retroactive awards under these 
criteria are not authorized for service prior to September 18, 2001.
    (iv) Those Soldiers possessing MOS of 18D who qualify for award of 
the Combat Medical Badge from September 18, 2001 to June 3, 2005 will 
remain qualified for the badge. Upon request any such Soldier may be 
awarded the CIB instead of the Combat Medical Badge. In such instances, 
the Soldier must submit a request through the chain of command to the 
Commander, USA HRC (see Sec.  578.3(c) for address), for conversion of 
the Combat Medical Badge to the CIB.
    (v) Service members from other U.S. Armed Forces and foreign 
military (infantry and Special Forces equivalents) assigned or attached 
as a member of a U.S. Army infantry or Special Forces unit of brigade, 
regimental, or smaller size may be considered for award of the CIB. The 
specific eligibility requirements listed in Sec.  578.69(a) must be 
met. Retroactive awards under these criteria are not authorized for 
service prior to September 18, 2001.
    (c) The CIB is authorized for award for the following qualifying 
periods:
    (1) World War II (December 7, 1941 to September 3, 1945).
    (2) The Korean War (June 27, 1950 to July 27, 1953).
    (3) Republic of Vietnam Conflict (March 2, 1961 to March 28, 1973), 
combined with qualifying service in Laos (April 19, 1961 to October 6, 
1962).
    (4) Dominican Republic (April 28, 1965 to September 1, 1966).
    (5) Korea on the DMZ (January 4, 1969 to March 31, 1994).
    (6) El Salvador (January 1, 1981 to February 1, 1992).
    (7) Grenada (October 23 to November 21, 1983).
    (8) Joint Security Area, Panmunjom, Korea (November 23, 1984).
    (9) Panama (December 20, 1989 to January 31, 1990).
    (10) Southwest Asia Conflict (January 17 to April 11, 1991).
    (11) Somalia (June 5, 1992 to March 31, 1994).
    (12) Afghanistan (Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, December 5, 2001 to a 
date to be determined).
    (13) Iraq (Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, March 19, 2003 to a date to be 
determined).
    (d) The special provisions authorized for the Vietnam Conflict, 
Laos, and Korea on the DMZ are outlined in paragraphs (d)(1) through 
(5) of this section.
    (1) During the Vietnam Conflict, any officer whose branch is other 
than infantry who, under appropriate orders, has commanded a line 
infantry (other

[[Page 17316]]

than a headquarters unit) unit of brigade, regimental, or smaller size 
for at least 30 consecutive days is deemed to have been detailed in 
infantry and is eligible for award of the CIB notwithstanding absence 
of a written directive detailing that Soldier in the infantry, provided 
all other requirements for the award have been met. Orders directing 
the officer to assume command will be confirmed in writing at the 
earliest practicable date.
    (i) In addition, any officer, warrant officer, or enlisted Soldier 
whose branch is other than infantry, who under appropriate orders was 
assigned to advise a unit listed in paragraphs (d)(2) and (3) of this 
section or was assigned as a member of a White Star Mobile Training 
Team or a member of MAAG-Laos as indicated in paragraphs (d)(4)(i) and 
(ii) of this section will be eligible for award of the CIB provided all 
other requirements have been met.
    (ii) After December 1, 1967 for service in the Republic of Vietnam, 
noncommissioned officers serving as Command Sergeants Major of infantry 
battalions and brigades for periods of at least 30 consecutive days in 
a combat zone are eligible for award of the CIB provided all other 
requirements have been met.
    (2) Subsequent to March 1, 1961, a Soldier must have been-(i) 
Assigned as advisor to an infantry unit, ranger unit, infantry-type 
unit of the civil guard of regimental or smaller size, and/or infantry-
type unit of the self-defense corps unit of regimental or smaller size 
of the Vietnamese government during any period such unit was engaged in 
actual ground combat.
    (ii) Assigned as advisor of an irregular force comparable to the 
above infantry units under similar conditions.
    (iii) Personally present and under fire while serving in an 
assigned primary duty as a member of a tactical advisory team while the 
unit participated in ground combat.
    (3) Subsequent to May 24, 1965, to qualify for the CIB, personnel 
serving in U.S. units must meet the requirements of paragraph (b)(1) of 
this section. Individuals who performed liaison duties with the Royal 
Thai Army of the Army of the Republic of Korea combat units in Vietnam 
are eligible for award of the badge provided they meet all other 
requirements.
    (4) In Laos from April 19, 1961 to October 6, 1962, a Soldier must 
have been--
    (i) Assigned as member of a White Star Mobile Training Team while 
the team was attached to or working with a unit of regimental 
(groupment mobile) or smaller size of Forces Armee du Royaume (FAR), or 
with irregular type forces of regimental or smaller size.
    (ii) A member of MAAG-Laos assigned as an advisor to a region or 
zone of FAR, or while serving with irregular type forces of regimental 
or smaller size.
    (iii) Personally under hostile fire while assigned as specified in 
paragraphs (d)(4)(i) and (ii) of this section.
    (5) In Korea on the DMZ. The special requirements for award of the 
CIB for service in the Republic of Korea are rescinded. Army veterans 
and service members who served in Korea on or after July 28, 1953 and 
meet the criteria for award of the CIB outlined in paragraphs (a) and 
(b) of this section, may submit an application (to include supporting 
documentation) for award of the CIB to the Commander, USA HRC, (see 
Sec.  578.3(c) for address). Retroactive awards under these criteria 
are not authorized for service prior to July 29, 1953.
    (e) Subsequent awards. To date, a separate award of the CIB has 
been authorized for qualified soldiers in any of the following four 
qualifying periods:
    (1) World War II (December 7, 1941 to September 3, 1945).
    (2) The Korean Conflict (June 27, 1950 to July 27, 1953).
    (3) The Vietnam Conflict. Service in the Republic of Vietnam 
conflict (after March 1, 1961) combined with qualifying service in Laos 
(April 19, 1961 to October 6, 1962); the Dominican Republic (April 28, 
1965 to September 1, 1966); Korea on the DMZ (after January 4, 1969); 
El Salvador (January 1, 1981 to February 1, 1992); Grenada (October 23 
to November 21, 1983); Joint Security Area, Panmunjom, Korea (November 
23, 1984); Panama (December 20, 1989 to January 31, 1990); Southwest 
Asia (January 17 to April 11, 1991); and Somalia (June 5, 1992 to March 
31, 1994) is recognized by one award only regardless of whether a 
soldier has served one or multiple tours in any or all of these areas.
    (4) Global War on Terrorism. Operation ENDURING FREEDOM (November 
20, 2001 to date to be determined) and Operation IRAQI FREEDOM (March 
19, 2003 to a date to be determined).
    (f) If a Soldier has been awarded the CIB in one of the qualifying 
periods outlined in paragraph (c) of this section, that Soldier is not 
eligible to earn the CMB in the same period.
    (g) Who may award--(1) Current awards. Current awards of the CIB 
may be awarded by the Commanding General, USA HRC and any commander 
delegated authority by the Secretary of the Army during wartime.
    (2) Retroactive awards. Retroactive awards of the Combat 
Infantryman Badge and the Combat Medical Badge may be awarded by the 
Commanding General, USA HRC to active duty Soldiers and Reserve 
Component Soldiers. Applications for retroactive award of the CIB and 
CMB will be forwarded through command channels to the Commander, USA 
HRC, (see Sec.  578.3(c) for address). Retirees and veterans should 
address their application to the NPRC, (see Sec.  578.16(a)(3) for 
address). Retroactive award of the CIB and CMB are authorized for time 
periods specified above to fully qualified individuals. Such awards 
will not be made except where evidence of injustice is presented.
    (h) Description. A silver and enamel badge 1 inch in height and 3 
inches in width, consisting of an infantry musket on a light blue bar 
with a silver border, on and over an elliptical oak wreath. Stars are 
added at the top of the wreath to indicate subsequent awards; one star 
for the second award, two stars for the third award and three stars for 
the fourth award.


Sec.  578.70  Combat Medical Badge.

    (a) Eligibility requirements. (1) The Combat Medical Badge (CMB) 
may be awarded to members of the Army Medical Department (colonels and 
below), the Naval Medical Department (captains and below), the Air 
Force Medical Service (colonels and below), assigned or attached by 
appropriate orders to an infantry unit of brigade, regimental, or 
smaller size, or to a medical unit of company or smaller size, organic 
to an infantry unit of brigade or smaller size, during any period the 
infantry unit is engaged in actual ground combat on or after December 
6, 1941. Battle participation credit alone is not sufficient; the 
infantry unit must have been in contact with the enemy.
    (2) Award of the CMB will not be made to general or flag officers.
    (b) The following individuals are also eligible for the CMB:
    (1) Effective December 19, 1989, Special Forces personnel 
possessing military occupational specialty 18D (Special Operations 
Medical Sergeant) who satisfactorily performed medical duties while 
assigned or attached to a Special Forces unit during any period the 
unit is engaged in actual ground combat, provided they are personally 
present and under fire. Retroactive awards under these criteria are not 
authorized prior to December 19, 1989.

[[Page 17317]]

    (2) Effective January 16, 1991, Medical personnel outlined in 
paragraph (a) of this section, assigned or attached to armor and ground 
cavalry units of brigade or smaller size, who satisfactorily perform 
medical duties while the unit is engaged in actual ground combat, 
provided they are personally present and under fire. Retroactive awards 
under these criteria are not authorized prior to January 16, 1991.
    (3) Effective September 11, 2001, Medical personnel outlined in 
paragraphs (a) (1) and (b)(2) of this section, assigned or attached to 
or under operational control of any ground Combat Arms units (not to 
include members assigned or attached to Aviation units) of brigade or 
smaller size, who satisfactorily perform medical duties while the unit 
is engaged in actual ground combat, provided they are personally 
present and under fire. Retroactive awards under these criteria are not 
authorized prior to September 11, 2001.
    (4) Effective on or after September 18, 2001:
    (i) Medical personnel assigned or attached to or under operational 
control of any ground Combat Arms units (not to include members 
assigned or attached to Aviation units) of brigade or smaller size, who 
satisfactorily perform medical duties while the unit is engaged in 
active ground combat, provided they are personally present and under 
fire. Retroactive awards under these criteria are not authorized for 
service prior to September 18, 2001.
    (ii) Effective June 5, 2005, Soldiers possessing a MOS of 18D are 
no longer eligible for award of the CMB (see Sec.  578.69 (b)(5)(iii) 
of this part).
    (c) The CMB is authorized for award for the following qualifying 
periods:
    (1) World War II (December 7, 1941 to September 3, 1945).
    (2) The Korean War (June 27, 1950 to July 27, 1953).
    (3) Republic of Vietnam Conflict (March 2, 1961 to March 28, 1973), 
combined with qualifying service in Laos (April 19, 1961 to October 6, 
1962).
    (4) Dominican Republic (April 28, 1965 to September 1, 1966).
    (5) Korea on the DMZ (January 4, 1969 to March 31, 1994).
    (6) El Salvador (January 1, 1981 to February 1, 1992).
    (7) Grenada (October 23 to November 21, 1983).
    (8) Joint Security Area, Panmunjom, Korea (November 23, 1984).
    (9) Panama (December 20, 1989 to January 31, 1990).
    (10) Southwest Asia Conflict (January 17 to April 11, 1991).
    (11) Somalia (June 5, 1992 to March 31, 1994).
    (12) Afghanistan (Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, December 5, 2001 to a 
date to be determined).
    (13) Iraq (Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, March 19, 2003 to a date to be 
determined).
    (d) The special provisions for the Vietnam Conflict, Laos and Korea 
on the DMZ are as follows:
    (1) For service in Vietnam Conflict:
    (i) On or after March 1, 1961, a Soldier must have been assigned to 
a Vietnamese unit engaged in actual ground combat or as a member of a 
U.S. Army infantry unit of brigade or smaller size, including Special 
Forces Detachments, serving with a Republic of Vietnam unit engaged in 
actual ground combat. The Republic of Vietnam unit must have been of 
regimental size or smaller and either an infantry, ranger, infantry-
type unit of the civil guard, infantry-type unit of the self-defense 
corps, or the irregular forces. The Soldier must have been personally 
present and under hostile fire while assigned as specified.
    (ii) On or after May 24, 1965, Soldiers serving in U.S. units must 
meet the requirements of paragraph (b)(1) of this section. Soldiers who 
perform liaison duties with the Royal Thai Army or the Army of the 
Republic of Korea combat units in Vietnam are eligible for award of the 
badge provided they meet all other requirements.
    (2) For service in Laos, from April 19, 1961 to October 6, 1962, 
the Soldier must have been--
    (i) Assigned as member of a White Star Mobile Training Team while 
the team was attached to or working with a unit of regimental 
(groupment mobile) or smaller size of Forces Armee du Royaume (FAR), or 
with irregular-type forces of regimental or smaller size.
    (ii) A member of the Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG), 
Laos, assigned as an advisor to a region or zone of FAR, or while 
serving with irregular-type forces of regimental or smaller size.
    (iii) Personally under hostile fire while assigned as specified in 
paragraphs (d)(2)(i) and (ii) of this section.
    (3) For service in Korea on the DMZ. The special requirements for 
award of the CMB for service in the Republic of Korea are rescinded. 
Army veterans and service members who served in Korea on or after July 
28, 1953 and meet the criteria for award of the CMB outlined in 
paragraph (a) of this section, may submit an application (to include 
supporting documentation) for award of the CMB to the Commander, USA 
HRC, (see Sec.  578.3(c) for address). Retroactive awards under these 
criteria are not authorized for service prior to July 29, 1953.
    (e) Subsequent awards. Second and subsequent awards of the CMB are 
as follows:
    (1) Second and third awards of the CMB are indicated by 
superimposing 1 and 2 stars respectively, centered at the top of the 
badge between the points of the oak wreath. To date, a separate award 
of the CMB has been authorized for qualified soldiers who service in 
the follow four qualifying periods:
    (i) World War II.
    (ii) The Korean War.
    (iii) Vietnam Conflict. Service in the Republic of Vietnam conflict 
combined with qualifying service in Laos; the Dominican Republic; Korea 
on the DMZ; El Salvador; Grenada; Joint Secruity Area, Panmunjom, 
Korea; Panama; and Southwest Asia Conflict; and Somalia regardless of 
whether a Soldier has served one or multiple tours in any or all of 
these areas. The Vietnam Conflict Era officially terminated on March 
10, 1995.
    (iv) Global War on Terrorism (Afghanistan, Operation ENDURING 
FREEDOM) and Iraq, Operation IRAQI FREEDOM.
    (2) If a Soldier has been awarded the CIB in one of the qualifying 
periods that Soldier is not eligible to earn the CMB in the same 
period.
    (f) Who may award. The award approval authority for the CMB is the 
same as the CIB (see Sec.  578.69(g) of this part.
    (g) Description. An oxidized silver badge 1 inch in height and 1\1/
2\ inches in width, consisting of a stretcher crossed by a caduceus 
surmounted at top by a Greek cross, all on and over an elliptical oak 
wreath. Stars are added to indicate subsequent awards; one star at top 
for the second award, one star at top and one at bottom for the third 
award, one star at top and one at each side for the fourth award.


Sec.  578.71  Combat Action Badge.

    (a) On May 2, 2005, the Chief of Staff, Army, approved the creation 
of the Combat Action Badge (CAB) to provide special recognition to 
Soldiers who personally engage, or are engaged by the enemy.
    (b) Basic eligibility requirements. The requirements for award of 
the CAB are Branch and MOS immaterial. Assignment to a Combat Arms unit 
or a unit organized to conduct close or offensive combat operations, or 
performing offensive combat operations is not required to qualify for 
the CAB. However, it is not intended to award all

[[Page 17318]]

Soldiers who serve in a combat zone or imminent danger area.
    (c) Specific eligibility requirements. (1) May be awarded to any 
Soldier.
    (2) Soldier must be performing assigned duties in an area where 
hostile fire pay or imminent danger pay is authorized.
    (3) Soldier must be personally present and actively engaging or 
being engaged by the enemy, and performing satisfactorily in accordance 
with the prescribed rules of engagement.
    (4) Soldier must be assigned or attached to a unit that would 
qualify the Soldier for the CIB or CMB. For example, an 11B assigned to 
Corps staff is eligible for award of the CAB. However, an 11B assigned 
to an infantry battalion is not eligible for award of the CAB.
    (d) In addition to Army Soldiers, the CAB may be awarded to members 
of other U.S. Armed Forces and foreign military personnel assigned to a 
U.S. Army unit, provided they meet the criteria (for example, Korean 
Augmentation to U.S. Army (KATUSA) personnel in the 2d Infantry 
Division would be eligible).
    (e) Award of the CAB is authorized from September 18, 2001, to a 
date to be determined. Award for qualifying service in any previous 
conflict is not authorized.
    (f) Second and subsequent awards of the CAB are as follows:
    (1) Only one CAB may be awarded during a qualified period.
    (2) Second and subsequent awards of the CAB will be indicated by 
superimposing one and two stars respectively, centered at the top of 
the badge between the points of the oak wreath.
    (g) Retroactive awards of the CAB are not authorized prior to 
September 18, 2001. For service on or after September 18, 2001, 
applications (with supporting documentation) for retroactive awards of 
the CAB will be forwarded through the first 2-star general in the chain 
of command to the Commander, USA HRC, (see Sec.  578.3(c) for address).
    (h) The CAB is categorized as a Group 1 Badge. See Army Regulation 
670-1 for specific wear instructions.
    (i) Soldiers may be awarded the CIB, CMB and CAB for the same 
qualifying period, provided the criteria for each badge are met. 
However, subsequent awards of the same badge within the same qualifying 
period are not authorized.
    (j) The CAB may be awarded by a commander delegated authority by 
the Secretary of the Army during wartime or the Cdr, USA HRC. Effective 
June 3, 2005, commanders delegated authority to award the CAB may 
further delegate award authority to commanders in the grade of major 
general or above. The CAB will be announced in permanent orders.
    (k) Description. A silver badge 2 inches (5.08cm) in width overall 
consisting of an oak wreath supporting a rectangle bearing a bayonet 
surmounting a grenade, all silver. Stars are added at the top to 
indicate subsequent awards; one star for the second award, two stars 
for the third award and three stars for the fourth award.


Sec.  578.72  Expert Infantryman Badge.

    (a) Basic eligibility criteria--(1) Specialty skill identifier and 
Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) requirement. Candidates must be 
in an Active Army status and must possess a primary MOS in CMF 11 or 
18B, 18C, 18E, 18F, or 18Z; be warrant officers identified as 180A; or 
be infantry or special operations branch officers serving in infantry 
positions.
    (2) Duty requirement. All personnel having a Career Management 
Field (CMF) 11 or Specialty Code 11 code, regardless of their present 
assignment, are eligible to participate in the Expert Infantryman Badge 
(EIB) program. They must meet the prerequisites and take the test with 
an infantry unit of at least battalion size.
    (b) Test requirement. Personnel must meet all prerequisites and 
proficiency tests prescribed by U.S. Army Infantry Center.
    (c) Authority to test and award the badge. The following commanders 
are authorized to give EIB tests and award the badge to qualified 
soldiers in their commands: (1) Division commanders;
    (2) Commanders of separate infantry brigades and regiments;
    (3) Commanders of divisional brigades when authority is delegated 
to them by their division commanders;
    (4) Separate infantry battalion commanders when authority is 
delegated to them by the commander exercising general court-martial 
authority over the battalion;
    (5) Commanders of U.S. Army Training Centers;
    (6) Commandant, U.S. Army Infantry School;
    (7) Commanders of Special Forces Groups;
    (8) Commanders of separate Special Forces battalions when authority 
is delegated to them by the commander exercising general court-martial 
authority over their units;
    (9) Commanders of Reserve Component combat and training divisions, 
and brigade size units are authorized to administer EIB tests and award 
the badge to qualified personnel in the command.
    (d) Description. A silver and enamel badge \7/16\ inch in height 
and 3 inches in width, consisting of an Infantry musket on a light blue 
bar with a silver border.


Sec.  578.73  Expert Field Medical Badge.

    (a) Basic eligibility criteria. (1) Officers must be assigned or 
detailed to an Army Medical Department (AMEDD) corps. This includes 
Army officers in training at the Uniformed Services University of 
Health Sciences. It also includes Army officers enrolled in the Health 
Professions Scholarship Program.
    (2) Warrant officers must have an AMEDD primary MOS controlled by 
the Surgeon General. Warrant officer pilots are also eligible, if they 
have a ``D'' SQI (Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot) and are assigned to an 
air ambulance unit.
    (3) Enlisted personnel must have a primary Military Occupational 
Specialty (MOS) in the Medical Career Management Field or an MOS of 
18D.
    (4) Other U.S. Armed Services and foreign military must either be 
medical personnel or serving in comparable medical positions. The 
approval for wear of the badge by other U.S. Armed Services and foreign 
military is governed according to their respective Services guidance.
    (b) Duty requirement. Eligible personnel must be on active duty or 
assigned to a troop program unit in the Reserve component unit or an 
AMEDD mobilization augmentation agency.
    (c) Authority to test and award. The following commanders in the 
grade of Lieutenant Colonel or above are authorized to conduct the test 
and award the badge. Commanders must have the resources and facilities 
to conduct the test as prescribed by the U.S. Army Medical Department 
Center and School.
    (1) Active Army Table of Organization and Equipment (TOE) and Table 
of Distribution and Allowances (TDA) medical units.
    (2) Division support commands.
    (3) Separate regiments and brigades.
    (4) Commanders of U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard units. 
Reserve and National Guard units must conduct the test during their 
annual active duty training.
    (d) Description. An oxidized silver badge \15/16\ inch in height 
and 1\7/16\ inches in width consisting of a stretcher crossed by a 
caduceus surmounted at top by a Greek cross.

[[Page 17319]]

Sec.  578.74  Parachutist badges.

    (a) Three degrees of badges are authorized for award: Basic 
Parachutist Badge, Senior Parachutist Badge, and Master Parachutist 
Badge.
    (b) Eligibility criteria for each badge as set forth in Parachutist 
Badge--Basic, Senior Parachutist Badge, and Master Parachutist Badge.
    (c) Special eligibility for awards will be determined from the DA 
Form 1307 (Individual Jump Record) in their military record. Each entry 
on this form will include pay period covered and initials of the 
personnel officer; the entry will be made only from a DA Form 1306 
(Statement of Jump and Loading Manifest) completed by an officer or 
jumpmaster.
    (d) Jumps with civilian parachute clubs will not be counted in the 
number of total jumps required for each badge.
    (e) Award of the basic Parachutist Badge or advanced parachutist 
badges awarded by other U.S. Services may only be awarded if the 
soldier meets the Army criteria for the badge.
    (f) Approval authority. Award approval authorities for all three 
badges are as follows:
    (1) Commanding Generals of major Army commands (MACOM) and 
continental United States (CONUS);
    (2) Commanders of U.S. Army Corps with organic long-range 
reconnaissance companies, commanders of airborne corps, airborne 
divisions;
    (3) Commander, 4th Psychological Operations Group (Airborne);
    (4) Infantry divisions containing organic airborne elements;
    (5) Commandants of the Infantry School and the Quartermaster 
School;
    (6) Commanders of separate airborne regiments, separate airborne 
battalions, Special Forces Group (Airborne), and the U.S. Army John F. 
Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School;
    (7) The President, U.S. Army Airborne, Communications and 
Electronics Board;
    (8) Commander, U.S. Army Special Forces Command (Airborne);
    (9) Commander, U.S. Army Special Operations Support Command 
(Airborne).
    (g) Subsequent awards. A bronze service star is authorized to be 
worn on the Parachutist Badges to denote a soldier's participation in a 
combat parachute jump. Orders are required to confirm award of these 
badges. A soldier's combat parachute jump credit is tied directly to 
the combat assault credit decision for the unit to which the soldier is 
attached or assigned at the time of the assault. Should a unit be 
denied air assault credit, no air assault credit for purpose of this 
badge will accrue to the individual soldiers of that unit. Each soldier 
must physically exit the aircraft to receive combat parachute jump 
credit and the Parachutist badge with bronze service star.
    (h) Description. An oxidized silver badge 1\13/64\ inches in height 
and 1\1/2\ inches in width, consisting of an open parachute on and over 
a pair of stylized wings displayed and curving inward. A star and 
wreath are added above the parachute canopy to indicate the degree of 
qualification. A star above the canopy indicates a Senior Parachutist; 
the star surrounded by a laurel wreath indicates a Master Parachutist. 
Small stars are superimposed on the appropriate badge to indicate 
combat jumps as follows:
    (1) One jump: A bronze star centered on the shroud lines \3/16\ 
inch below the canopy;
    (2) Two jumps: A bronze star on the base of each wing;
    (3) Three jumps: A bronze star on the base of each wing and one 
star centered on the shroud lines \3/16\ inch below the canopy;
    (4) Four jumps: Two bronze stars on the base of each wing;
    (5) Five jumps: A gold star centered on the shroud lines \5/16\ 
inch below the canopy.


Sec.  578.75  Parachutist Badge--Basic.

    General. To be eligible for award of the basic Parachutist Badge, 
an individual must have satisfactorily completed the prescribed 
proficiency tests while assigned or attached to an airborne unit or the 
Airborne Department of the Infantry School, or have participated in at 
least one combat parachute jump as follows:
    (a) A member of an organized force carrying out an assigned 
tactical mission for which the unit was credited with an airborne 
assault landing by the theater commander;
    (b) While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an 
opposing foreign force;
    (c) While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed 
conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is 
not a belligerent party.


Sec.  578.76  Senior Parachutist Badge.

    To be eligible for the Senior Parachutist Badge, an individual must 
have been rated excellent in character and efficiency and have met the 
following requirements:
    (a) Participated in a minimum of 30 jumps to include the following:
    (1) Fifteen jumps with combat equipment to consist of normal TOE 
equipment including individual weapon carried in combat whether the 
jump was in actual or simulated combat. In cases of simulated combat 
the equipment will include water, rations (actual or dummy), ammunition 
(actual or dummy), and other essential items necessary to sustain an 
individual in combat.
    (2) Two night jumps made during the hours of darkness (regardless 
of time of day with respect to sunset) one of which will be as 
jumpmaster of a stick.
    (3) Two mass tactical jumps which culminate in an airborne assault 
problem with either a unit equivalent to a battalion or larger; a 
separate company battery; or an organic staff of regimental size or 
larger. The soldier must fill a position commensurate with his or her 
rank or grade during the problem.
    (4) For award of the Senior Parachutist Badge, the prerequisite 
requirements above must be obtained by static line parachuting.
    (b) Either graduated from the Jumpmaster Course of the Airborne 
Department of the Infantry School or the Jumpmaster School of a 
separate airborne battalion or larger airborne unit, or infantry 
divisions and separate infantry brigades containing organic airborne 
elements, to include the U.S. Army Alaska Jumpmaster Course or served 
as jumpmaster on one or more combat jumps or as a jumpmaster on 15 
noncombat jumps.
    (c) Have served on jump status with an airborne unit or other 
organizations authorized parachutists for a total of at least 24 
months.


Sec.  578.77  Master Parachutist Badge.

    To be eligible for the Master Parachutist Badge, an individual must 
have been rated excellent in character and efficiency and have met the 
following requirements:
    (a) Participated in a minimum of 65 jumps to include: (1) Twenty-
five jumps with combat equipment to consist of normal TOE equipment, 
including individual weapon carried by the individual in combat whether 
the jump was in actual or simulated combat. In cases of simulated 
combat the equipment will include water rations (actual or dummy), 
ammunition (actual or dummy), and other essential items necessary to 
sustain an individual in combat.
    (2) Four night jumps made during the hours of darkness (regardless 
of the time of day with respect to sunset) one of which will be as 
jumpmaster of a stick.
    (3) Five mass tactical jumps which culminate in an airborne assault 
problem with a unit equivalent to a battalion or larger; a separate 
company/battery; or an organic staff of regimental size or larger. The 
individual must fill

[[Page 17320]]

a position commensurate with their rank or grade during the problem.
    (4) For award of the Master Parachutist Badge, the prerequisite 
requirements in paragraphs (a)(1), (2) and (3) of this section must be 
obtained by static line parachuting.
    (b) Either graduated from the Jumpmaster Course of the Airborne 
Department of the Infantry School or the Jumpmaster School of a 
separate airborne battalion or larger airborne unit, or infantry 
divisions and separate infantry brigades containing organic airborne 
elements, to include the U.S. Army Alaska Jumpmaster Course, or served 
as jumpmaster on one or more combat jumps or as jumpmaster on 33 
noncombat jumps.
    (c) Have served on jump status with an airborne unit or other 
organization authorized parachutists for a total of at least 36 months.


Sec.  578.78  Parachute Rigger Badge.

    (a) Eligibility requirements. Any individual who successfully 
completes the Parachute Rigger course conducted by the U.S. Army 
Quartermaster School and holds an awarded MOS of 43E (enlisted) or 401A 
(warrant officers) may be awarded the Parachute Rigger Badge. Officers 
qualify upon successful completion of one of the following courses: 
Aerial Delivery and Materiel Officer Course; Parachute Maintenance and 
Aerial Supply Officer Course; Parachute Maintenance and Airdrop Course 
(officer or enlisted) or Parachute Rigger Course (enlisted). Sergeants 
Major and Master Sergeants who hold by career progression a MOS of 00Z 
or 76Z and formerly held an awarded MOS of 43E are qualified for award 
of the Parachute Rigger Badge.
    (b) Retroactive award. The Parachute Rigger Badge may be awarded 
retroactively to any individual who graduated from the Parachute Rigger 
school after May 1951 and holds or at anytime held an awarded MOS 
listed in paragraph (a) of this section. Officers must have 
successfully completed one of the courses listed in paragraph (a) of 
this section to qualify for retroactive award of the badge. The badge 
may also be awarded retroactively to any individual who performed as a 
rigger prior to May 1951 and did not attend or graduate from the U.S. 
Army Quartermaster Center and School.
    (c) Who may award--(1) Current awards. Current awards of the 
Parachute Rigger Badge will be made by the Commandant, U.S. Army 
Quartermaster School, Fort Lee, VA 23801-5152, and the Commander, USA 
HRC (Sec.  578.3(c) for address).
    (2) Retroactive awards--(i) After 1951. Requests for award of the 
badge from individuals having no current Army status (veterans and 
retirees) who qualified after 1951 will be forwarded to the NPRC (see 
Sec.  578.16(a)(3) for address).
    (ii) Before 1951. Requests for award of the badge from individuals 
(Active duty, veterans and retirees) who qualified before 1951 will be 
submitted to the Commandant, U.S. Army Quartermaster Center and School, 
ATTN: ATSM-Q-MG (Historian), Fort Lee, VA 23801-1601. Requests must 
include written justification and will be considered on a case-by-case 
basis.
    (d) Description. A silver winged hemispherical canopy with 
conically arrayed cords, 1\3/4\ inches wide, with a band centered on 
the badge inscribed ``RIGGER.''


Sec.  578.79  Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge.

    (a) The Military Free Fall Parachutist Badges identify Special 
Operations Forces (SOF) personnel who have qualified in one of the 
military's most demanding and hazardous skills, military free fall 
parachuting.
    (b) Badge authorized. Two degrees of the Military Free Fall 
Parachutist Badges are authorized for award: Basic and Jumpmaster.
    (c) Eligibility requirements. (1) Military Free Fall Parachutist 
Badge, Basic. To be eligible for the basic badge, an individual must 
meet one of the following criteria:
    (i) Have satisfactorily completed a prescribed program of 
instruction in military free fall approved by the U.S. Army John F. 
Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School (USAJFKSWC&S); or
    (ii) Have executed a military free fall combat jump.
    (2) Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge, Jumpmaster. To be 
eligible for the Jumpmaster Badge, an individual must have 
satisfactorily completed a prescribed military free fall jumpmaster 
program of instruction approved by USAJFKSWC&S.
    (d) Approval authority. (1) The Commander in Chief, U.S. Special 
Operations Command is the approval authority for award of these badges.
    (2) The Commanding General, USAJFKSWC&S is the approval authority 
for award of the badges to qualifying personnel upon their graduation 
from USAJFKSWC&S Military Free Fall Parachutist basic and Military Free 
Fall Parachutist Jumpmaster courses.
    (3) Retroactive Award. Special Operations Forces personnel who 
qualified in military free fall prior to October 1, 1994 must obtain 
approval prior to wearing the Military Free Fall Parachutist Badges. 
Requests for award of the badge will be submitted in writing to 
Commander, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School, 
ATTN: AFJK-GPD-SA, Fort Bragg, NC 28307-5000. Applications will include 
the following:
    (i) Name, rank, SSN, and MOS;
    (ii) Copy of official jump record, DA Form 1307 (Individual Jump 
Record), and any other supporting documents (that is, graduation or 
qualification certificates).
    (4) Veterans and Retirees. Veterans and retirees may request update 
of their records to show permanent award of the badge by writing to the 
NPRC (Sec.  578.16 (a)(3) for address). Requests should include copy of 
official jump record, DA Form 1307 (Individual Jump Record), and any 
other support documents (that is, graduation or qualification 
certificates).
    (e) A bronze service star is authorized to be worn on all degrees 
of the Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge to denote a soldier's 
participation in a combat parachute jump. Orders are required to 
confirm award of this badge. A soldier's combat parachute jump credit 
is tied directly to the combat assault landing credit decision for the 
unit to which the soldier is assigned or attached at the time of the 
assault landing. Should a unit be denied air assault credit, no air 
assault credit for purpose of this badge will accrue to the individual 
soldiers of that unit. Each soldier must physically exit the aircraft 
to receive combat parachute jump credit and the Military Free Fall 
Parachutist badge with bronze service star.


Sec.  578.80  Army Aviator Badges.

    (a) Badges authorized. There are three degrees of the aviator 
badges authorized for award. They are as follows: Basic Army Aviator 
Badge, Senior Army Aviator Badge, and Master Army Aviator Badge.
    (b) Eligibility Requirements. (1) Eligibility for U.S. Personnel. 
An individual must have satisfactorily completed prescribed training 
and proficiency tests as outlined in AR 600-105, and must have been 
designated as an aviator in orders issued by headquarters indicated 
above.
    (2) Eligibility for foreign military personnel. While only U.S. 
officers may be awarded an aeronautical rating, the Army Aviator Badge 
may be awarded to foreign military graduates of initial entry flight-
training courses conducted at the U.S. Army Aviation Center. The Senior 
and Master Army Aviator Badges may be awarded to foreign military

[[Page 17321]]

personnel rated as pilots who meet or exceed eligibility criteria 
required of U.S. Army officers for the respective badges, and subject 
to the regulations of their countries. As a minimum, foreign officers 
recommended for award of advanced aviator badges must--
    (i) Be currently qualified for flying duty in their own military 
service.
    (ii) Be medically qualified.
    (iii) If not a graduate of an initial entry U.S. Army aviation 
course, have attended a formal training or aircraft transition course 
conducted at Fort Rucker or at an U.S. Army Aviation Training School.
    (iv) Have 1000 flying hours in aircraft and 7 years from basic 
rating date for the Senior Aviator Badge; have 2000 hours in aircraft 
and 15 years from basic rating date for the Master Aviator Badge. Total 
Operational Flying Duty Credit (TOFDC) which may be applied by U.S. 
officers to qualify for advanced badges will not be used to justify 
awards to foreign officers.
    (c) Approval authority. Badge approval authority is as follows: (1) 
The Commander, U.S. Army Aviation Center and Fort Rucker, to U.S. 
student aviators upon successful completion of courses leading to an 
aeronautical rating of Army Aviator, and to foreign military personnel 
under the provisions of paragraph (d) of this section.
    (2) CG, USA HRC (HRC-OPA-V) to inter-service transfers who 
previously held an aeronautical rating in another service.
    (3) Commanders having general court-martial convening authority may 
award the Senior or Master Army Aviator Badge to officers on extended 
active duty.
    (4) Major Army overseas commanders, CONUSA (the numbered armies in 
the continental United States) commanders, and CDR, USA HRC may award 
the Senior and Master Aviator Badge to U.S. Army Reserve personnel not 
on extended active duty in the Active Army.
    (5) Chief, National Guard Bureau may award the Senior or Master 
Aviator Badge to Army National Guard (ARNG) personnel not on extended 
active duty in the Active Army.
    (d) Army Astronaut Device. A gold colored device, \7/16\ inch in 
length, consisting of a star emitting three contrails encircled by an 
elliptical orbit. It is awarded by the Chief of Staff, Army, to 
personnel who complete a minimum of one operational mission in space 
(50 miles above earth) and is affixed to the appropriate Army Aviator 
Badge, Flight Surgeon Badge, or Aviation Badge awarded to the 
astronaut. Individuals who have not been awarded one of the badges 
listed above but who meet the other astronaut criteria will be awarded 
the basic Aviation Badge with Army Astronaut Device.
    (e) Description. An oxidized silver badge \3/4\ inch in height and 
2\1/2\ inches in width, consisting of the shield of the coat of arms of 
the United States on and over a pair of displayed wings. A star is 
added above the shield to indicate qualification as a Senior Army 
Aviator. The star is surrounded with a laurel wreath to indicate 
qualification as a Master Army Aviator.


Sec.  578.81  Flight Surgeon Badges.

    (a) Badges authorized. Three levels of Flight Surgeon Badges are 
authorized for award, Basic Flight Surgeon Badge; Senior Flight Surgeon 
Badge; and Master Flight Surgeon Badge.
    (b) Eligibility requirements. Any Army Medical Corps officer who 
satisfactorily completes the training and other requirements prescribed 
by AR 600-105.
    (c) Badge approval authority. (1) The basic Flight Surgeon Badge 
may be awarded by the Commanding General, U.S. Army Aviation Center and 
Fort Rucker. The CG will award the badge to those U.S. medical officers 
who have been awarded an aeronautical designation per AR 600-105 and to 
foreign military personnel who complete the training and the 
requirements prescribed by AR 600-105.
    (2) Senior and Master Flight Surgeon Badges may be awarded by the 
following:
    (i) The Surgeon General. Forward requests to HQDA (DASG-HCZ, WASH 
DC 20310-2300.
    (ii) The Chief, National Guard Bureau to National Guard personnel 
not on active duty. Forward requests to the National Guard Bureau, 
Military Personnel Office, 111 South George Mason Drive, Arlington, VA 
22204-1382.
    (d) Description. An oxidized silver badge \23/32\ inch in height 
and 2\1/2\ inches in width, consisting of a shield, its field scored 
with horizontal lines and bearing the Staff of Aesculapius on and over 
a pair of displayed wings. A star is added above the shield to indicate 
the degree of Senior Flight Surgeon and the star is surrounded with a 
laurel wreath to indicate the degree of Master Flight Surgeon.


Sec.  578.82  Diver Badges.

    (a) Badges authorized. There are five types of Diver Badges 
authorized for award, Master Diver Badge; First-Class Diver Badge; 
Salvage Diver Badge; Second-Class Diver Badge; and Scuba Diver Badge.
    (b) Navy Badges. The following Navy Diving Badges may also be worn 
on the Army uniform after written approval is obtained from HQ, AHRC 
(Sec.  578.3(c)): Diving Officer and Diving Medical Officer. The 
eligibility criteria and approval authority for these two badges is 
provided in Army Regulation AR 611-75, Selection, Qualification, Rating 
and Disrating of Marine Divers.
    (c) Eligibility requirements. See AR 611-75.
    (d) Badge approval authority. See AR 611-75.
    (e) Descriptions. (1) Scuba--A 1 inch high silver badge consisting 
of a scuba diver's hood with face mask, mouthpiece, and breathing 
tubes. The width is \31/32\ inch.
    (2) Salvage--A silver diving helmet, 1 inch in height, with the 
letter ``S'' \3/8\ inch in height, superimposed on the chest plate. The 
width is \23/32\ inch.
    (3) Second Class--A silver diving helmet 1 inch in height. The 
width is \23/32\ inch.
    (4) First Class--A silver diving helmet \15/16\ inch in height, 
between two dolphins, 1 inch high. The width is 1\3/32\ inches.


Sec.  578.83  Special Operations Diver Badge.

    (a) The Scuba Diver Badge was renamed the Special Operations Diver 
Badge (SODB). In additional to the SODB, another skill level was 
created, Special Operations Diving Supervisor Badge (SODSB).
    (b) Eligibility criteria. The basic eligibility criteria for award 
of the SODB and the SODSB are as follows:
    (1) The SODB is awarded to graduates of the U.S. Army John F. 
Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School (USAJFKSWCS) Combat Diver 
Qualification Course (CDQC), Special Forces Underwater Operations, Key 
West, Florida or any other United States Army Special Operations 
Command (USASOC) approved combat diver qualification course.
    (2) The SODSB is awarded to graduates of the USAJFKSWCS CDQC, 
Special Forces Underwater Operations, Key West, Florida or any other 
USASOC approved combat diving supervisor course. Prerequisite for the 
SODSB is the SODB.
    (c) Approval authority. The Commanding General, USAJFKSWCS is the 
approval authority for the SODB and the SODSB.
    (d) Retroactive award. The SODB and the SODSB may be awarded 
retroactively to members of any service who successfully completed the 
USAJFKSWCS CDQC and the Combat

[[Page 17322]]

Diving Supervisor Course on or after October 1, 1964. Retroactive award 
requests will be submitted to the Commander, USAJFKSWCS, ATTN: AOJK-GPB 
(C/21 SWTG LNO), Fort Bragg, NC 28310. Retroactive requests for 
veterans must be forwarded to the National Personnel Records Center, 
ATTN: NRPMA-M, 9700 Page Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100.
    (e) Revocation. The SODB and the SODSB may be revoked by the 
Commander, USAJFKSWCS or the CG, USA HRC, based on the recommendation 
of the field commander (COL and above). If the commander believes the 
individual has exhibited a pattern of behavior or duty performance that 
is inconsistent with expectations of the Army, or the qualified service 
member does not continuously demonstrate enhanced degrees of 
confidence, commitment, competency and discipline, then the badge may 
be revoked. Award of the SODB and the SODSB may be revoked for any of 
the following conditions:
    (1) Dismissal, dishonorable discharge, or conviction by courts-
martial for desertion in time of war.
    (2) Failure to maintain prescribed standards of personal fitness 
and readiness to accomplish missions commensurate with position and 
rank.
    (3) Upon relief or release for cause.
    (f) Description. (1) SODB. A silver badge 1\1/8\ inches (2.86cm) in 
height consisting of a diver's head in full gear in front of two 
crossed Sykes-Fairbain Commando daggers points up. Around either side 
of the diver's head is diving shark with tail fin behind the dagger 
point.
    (2) SODSB. A silver badge 1\1/8\ inches (2.86cm) in height 
consisting of a diver's head in full gear in front of two crossed 
Sykes-Fairbain Commando daggers points up. Around either side of the 
diver's head a diving shark with tail fin behind the dagger point. Over 
the mouth piece is a star surrounded by a wreath of laurel.


Sec.  578.84  Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badges.

    (a) Badges authorized. There are three types of explosive ordnance 
disposal (EOD) badges authorized for award. They are the Basic, Senior, 
and Master.
    (b) Badge approval authority. Commanding generals of divisions and 
higher commands; commanders of separate groups or equivalent 
headquarters exercising operational control of EOD personnel or units, 
Commandant, U.S. Army Ordnance Missile & Munitions Center & School, and 
a commander of an EOD Control Group, or units may approve awards of all 
levels of badges.
    (c) Basic eligibility criteria. Eligibility requirements for each 
badge are provided below.
    (d) Description. A silver badge, 1\3/4\ inches in height, 
consisting of shield charged with a conventional, drop bomb, point 
down, from which radiates four lightning flashes, all in front of and 
contained within a wreath of laurel leaves. The Senior Explosive 
Ordnance Disposal Badge is the same as the basic badge except the drop 
bomb bears a \7/32\ inch silver star. The Master Explosive Ordnance 
Disposal Badge is the same as the Senior Badge except a star, 
surrounded by a laurel wreath, is added above the shield.


Sec.  578.85  Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge--Basic.

    (a) Eligibility requirements. Any commissioned officer or enlisted 
soldier may be awarded the badge if he or she meets, or has met, all 
the following requirements: (1) Successful completion of conventional 
render safe qualification as prescribed for the Explosive Ordnance 
Disposal (EOD) course of instruction (minimum requirement).
    (2) Assigned in a TOE or TDA EOD position for which basic EOD 
course is a prerequisite.
    (3) Service in a position in paragraph (a)(2) of this section must 
be satisfactory for a period of 18 months for the award to be 
permanent.
    (4) Officers must have a special skill identifier of 91E, and 
enlisted personnel must hold the military occupational specialty 55D.
    (b) Who may award. See Sec.  578.84 of this part.


Sec.  578.86  Senior Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge.

    (a) Eligibility requirements. Any commissioned officer or enlisted 
soldier may be awarded the badge if he or she has:
    (1) Been awarded the basic Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge and 
effective May 1, 1989, has served 36 months cumulative service assigned 
to a TOE or table of distribution (TD) EOD position following award of 
basic badge.
    (2) Effective May 1, 1989, has served 36 months cumulative service 
assigned to a TOE or TD EOD position following award of the basic 
badge. Prior to May 1, 1989, must have served 18 months cumulative 
service assigned to a TOE or TD EOD position following award of the 
basic badge.
    (3) Been recommended for the award by immediate commander.
    (4) Current explosive ordnance disposal qualifications at the time 
of recommendation for the award.
    (b) Who may award. See Sec.  578.84 of this part.


Sec.  578.87  Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge.

    (a) Eligibility requirements. Any commissioned officer, or enlisted 
soldier may be awarded the badge if he or she meets, or has met, all 
the following requirements:
    (1) Must have been awarded the Senior Explosive Ordnance Disposal 
Badge.
    (2) Sixty months cumulative service assigned to a TOE or TD officer 
or noncommissioned officer EOD position since award of Senior Explosive 
Ordnance Disposal Badge.
    (3) Must be recommended for the award by immediate commander.
    (4) Explosive ordnance disposal qualifications must be current at 
the time of recommendation for the award.
    (b) Who may award. See Sec.  578.84 of this part.


Sec.  578.88  Pathfinder Badge.

    (a) Eligibility criteria. (1) Successful completion of the 
Pathfinder Course conducted by the U.S. Army Infantry School.
    (2) Any person previously awarded the Pathfinder award for 
completion of Pathfinder training is authorized award of the Pathfinder 
Badge.
    (b) Badge approval authority. The Pathfinder Badge may be approved 
by the Commandant, U.S. Army Infantry School.
    (c) Description. A gold color metal and enamel badge 1\3/16\ inches 
in height and 1\1/2\ inches in width, consisting of a gold sinister 
wing displayed on and over a gold torch with red and gray flames.


Sec.  578.89  Air Assault Badge.

    (a) Basic eligibility criteria. The basic eligibility criteria 
consist of satisfactory completion of--
    (1) An air assault training course according to the TRADOC 
standardized Air Assault Core Program of Instruction.
    (2) The standard Air Assault Course while assigned or attached to 
101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) since April 1, 1974.
    (b) Badge approval authority. Badge approval authority is as 
follows:
    (1) Commanders of divisions and separate brigades.
    (2) The Commander, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).
    (c) Description. An oxidized silver badge \3/4\ inch in height and 
1\17/32\ inches in width, consisting of a helicopter, frontal view, 
superimposed upon a pair of stylized wings displayed and curving. The 
wings suggest flight and together

[[Page 17323]]

with the helicopter symbolize individual skills and qualifications in 
assault landings utilizing the helicopter.


Sec.  578.90  Aviation Badges.

    (a) Badges authorized. There are three degrees of Aviation Badge 
(formerly the Aircraft Crew Member Badge) authorized for award, Basic, 
Senior and Master.
    (b) Badge approval authority. Commanders exercising jurisdiction 
over the individuals' personnel records will make permanent award of 
these badges. Permanent award of these badges based upon wounds or 
combat missions will be referred to Commander, USA HRC (see Sec.  
578.3(c) for address). Request for award of the Senior and Master 
Aviation Badges that cannot be resolved at the MPD/PSC will be 
forwarded to the Commander, U.S. Army Aviation Center, ATTN: ATZQ-AP, 
Fort Rucker, AL 36362-5000.
    (c) Special policy. (1) The retroactive date for these badges is 
January 1, 1947.
    (2) The Master Aviation Badge and the Senior Aviation Badge are 
authorized for permanent wear. The Basic Aviation Badge may be 
authorized for temporary or permanent wear. An officer awarded an 
Aviation Badge while serving in an enlisted status is authorized to 
wear the badge as a permanent part of the uniform.
    (d) Eligibility requirements for each badge are provided in 
Sec. Sec.  578.91, 578.92, and 578.93.
    (e) Description. An oxidized silver badge \3/4\ inch in height and 
2\2/12\ inches in width, consisting of a shield with its field scored 
with horizontal lines and bearing the coat of arms of the United States 
on and over a pair of displayed wings. A star is added above the shield 
to indicate the degree of Senior Aviation Badge and the star is 
surrounded with a laurel wreath to indicate the degree of Master 
Aviation Badge.


Sec.  578.91  Aviation Badge--Basic.

    (a) Permanent Award. (1) For permanent award of this badge, an 
individual must be on flying status, (physically qualified-class III), 
IAW AR 600-106 or be waived by HQDA, have performed in-flight duties 
for not less than 12 hours (not necessarily consecutive), or is school 
trained.
    (2) An officer on flying status as an aerial observer may be 
awarded the Basic Aviation Badge. U.S. Army personnel assigned to a 
Joint Service Airborne Command Post and serving as members of an 
operational team on flying status manning the Airborne Command Post are 
eligible for the award of the Basic Aviation Badge. Concurrent with 
such assignment, these personnel are authorized temporary wear of the 
Basic Aviation Badge until relieved from such duty or until such time 
as he or she fulfills the mandatory requirements for permanent award.
    (3) An individual who has been incapacitated for further flight 
duty by reason of being wounded as a result of enemy action, or injured 
as the result of an aircraft accident for which he or she was not 
personally responsible, or has participated in at least 15 combat 
missions under probable exposure to enemy fire while serving in a 
principal duty outlined in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, is 
permanently authorized to wear the Basic Aviation Badge.
    (4) The Basic Aviation Badge may be permanently awarded to soldiers 
upon successful completion of formal advanced individual training (AIT) 
in Career Management Field (CMF) 67 and CMF 93 MOS', and to soldiers 
who previously completed AIT in CMF 28 MOS'. This includes soldiers who 
graduated from AIT for MOS' in the 68 series. Soldiers holding MOS' 
35L, 35M, 35Q, and 35W who graduated from a CMF 67 AIT prior to 
September 30, 1996 and MOSs 93C and 93P who graduated from a CMF 67 AIT 
after December 31, 1985 are authorized based on documented prior AIT.
    (5) Individuals who meet the criteria for award of the Army 
Astronaut Device and are not authorized an Aviator, Flight Surgeon or 
Aviation Badge will be awarded the Aviation Badge in addition to the 
Army Astronaut Device.
    (6) The Aviation Badge may be permanently awarded to soldiers upon 
successful completion of formal AIT in CMF 93 MOS'. Soldiers previously 
holding MOS 93B who graduated from a CMF 93 AIT prior to January 1, 
1998 and soldiers previously holding MOS 93D who graduated from a CMF 
93 AIT prior to September 30, 1996 are authorized the badge based on 
documented AIT after December 31, 1985.
    (b) Temporary Award. For temporary award of this badge, the 
commander of any Army unit that has Army aircraft assigned may 
authorize in published orders qualified personnel of his or her command 
to wear the Aviation Badge. The individual must be performing in-flight 
duties.


Sec.  578.92  Senior Aviation Badge.

    (a) Eligibility criteria. For award of this badge, an individual 
must either successfully perform 7 years on flight status (physically 
qualified-class III) in a principal duty assignment described in AR 
600-106 or serve in CMF 67 and 93, including all 68 series MOS'. 
Warrant Officers MOS' 150A and 151A, and MOS 00Z individuals from CMF 
67 or 93 field may qualify for the Senior Aviation Badge with 10 years 
of experience and meet the following criteria:
    (1) Only time involving frequent and regular flights will be 
counted toward fulfillment of this requirement, except that time 
involved in transit between PCS assignments to include TDY, will also 
be credited.
    (2) Soldiers who retain CMF 67 or 93 while performing career 
progressive assignments, especially duties as Drill Sergeant, 
Recruiter, Career Management NCO, Career Advisor, Instructor or Equal 
Opportunity Advisor will be counted towards this requirement not to 
exceed 36 months. Warrant Officers MOS 150A or 151A may qualify for 
this badge after successfully performing 7 years on flight status or 10 
years experience in CMF 67 or 93, MOS 151A or 150A. Prior enlisted CMF 
67 time may count with MOS 151A experience and CMF 93 time may count 
with MOS 150A experience to fulfill this requirement. The retroactive 
date for this badge under these criteria is January 1, 1983.
    (3) Displayed complete competence in the principal duty or duties 
performed leading to this award.
    (4) Attained the grade of E-4 or higher.
    (5) Be recommended by the unit commander of the unit to which 
presently assigned.
    (b) Retroactive award. The retroactive date for award of this badge 
is February 1, 1989 for CMF 93, Warrant Officer MOS' 150A and 151A and 
individuals in MOS 00Z. Soldiers holding CMF 93 or MOS 93D, prior to 
September 30, 1996 and MOS 93B prior to January 1, 1998, may qualify 
for award of the Senior Aviation Badge based on documented experience.


Sec.  578.93  Master Aviation Badge.

    (a) For award of this badge, an individual must either successfully 
perform 15 years on flight status (physically qualified-class III) in a 
principal duty assignment described in AR 600-106 or serve in CMF 67 or 
93, including all 68 series MOS'. Warrant Officers MOS' 150A and 151A 
and individuals in MOS 00Z from a CMF 67 or 93 field, may qualify for 
the Master Aviation Badge with 17 years of experience and meet the 
following criteria:
    (1) Only time involving frequent and regular flights will be 
counted toward fulfillment of this requirement, except that time 
involved in transit between PCS assignments, to include TDY, will also 
be credited.

[[Page 17324]]

    (2) Soldiers that retain CMF 67 or 93 while performing career 
progressive assignments, especially duties as Drill Sergeant, 
Recruiter, Career Management NCO, Career Advisor, Instructor or Equal 
Opportunity Advisor, will be counted towards this requirement not to 
exceed 36 months. Warrant Officer MOS' 150A and 151A may qualify for 
this badge after successfully performing 15 years on flight status or 
17 years experience in CMF 67 or 93 or MOS 150A and 151A. Prior 
enlisted CMF 67 time may count with MOS 151A experience and CMF 93 time 
may count with MOS 150A experience to fulfill this requirement.
    (3) Displayed complete competence in the principal duty or duties 
performed leading to this award.
    (4) Attained the grade of E-6 or higher.
    (5) Be recommended by the unit commander and endorsed by the next 
higher commander of the unit to which presently assigned.
    (b) Retroactive date. The retroactive date for the badge under 
these revised criteria is January 1, 1976. The retroactive date for CMF 
93, Warrant Officer MOS' 150A and 151A and individuals in MOS 00Z is 
February 1, 1982. Soldiers holding CMF 93, MOS 93D, prior to September 
30, 1996 and MOS 93B, prior to January 1, 1998, may qualify for award 
of the Master Aviation Badge based on documented experience.


Sec.  578.94  Driver and Mechanic Badge.

    (a) Basic criteria. The Driver and Mechanic Badge is awarded to 
drivers, mechanics, and special equipment operators to denote the 
attainment of a high degree of skill in the operation and maintenance 
of motor vehicles.
    (b) Badge approval authority. Commanders of brigades, regiments, 
separate battalions, and any commander in the rank of lieutenant 
colonel or higher.
    (c) Eligibility requirements for drivers. A soldier must--
    (1) Qualify for and possess a current OF 346 (U.S. Government Motor 
Vehicles Operator's Identification Card), issued as prescribed by AR 
600-55 and,
    (2) Be assigned duties and responsibilities as a driver or 
assistant driver of government vehicles for a minimum of 12 consecutive 
months, or during at least 8,000 miles and with no government motor 
vehicle accident or traffic violation recorded on his or her DA Form 
348-1-R (Equipment Operator's Qualification Record (Except Aircraft)), 
or,
    (3) Perform satisfactorily for a minimum period of 1 year as an 
active qualified driver instructor or motor vehicle driver examiner.
    (d) Eligibility requirements for mechanics. A soldier must--
    (1) Pass aptitude tests and complete the standard mechanics' course 
with a ``skilled'' rating or have demonstrated possession of sufficient 
previous experience as an automotive or engineer equipment mechanic to 
justify such a rating.
    (2) Be assigned to primary duty as an automotive or engineer 
mechanic, unit level or higher, or is an active automotive or engineer 
mechanic instructor.
    (3) If required to drive an Army motor vehicle in connection with 
automotive mechanic or automotive mechanic instructor duties, qualify 
for motor vehicle operators permit as prescribed above, and perform 
duty which includes driving motor vehicles for a minimum of 6 
consecutive months, and has no Army motor vehicle accident or traffic 
violation recorded on his or her DA Form 348 (Equipment Operator's 
Qualification Record (Except Aircraft)).
    (e) Eligibility requirements for operators of special mechanical 
equipment. A soldier or civilian whose primary duty involves operation 
of Army materials handling or other mechanical equipment must have 
completed 12 consecutive months or 500 hours of operation, whichever 
comes later, without accident or written reprimand as the result of his 
or her operation, and his or her operating performance must have been 
adequate in all respects.
    (f) Description. A white metal (silver, nickel and rhodium), 1 inch 
in height and width, a cross patee with the representation of disk 
wheel with tire placed on the center. Component bars are authorized 
only for the following types of vehicles and/or qualifications:
    (1) Driver--W (for wheeled vehicles);
    (2) Driver--T (for tracked vehicles);
    (3) Driver--M (for motorcycles);
    (4) Driver--A (for amphibious vehicles);
    (5) Mechanic (for automotive or allied vehicles);
    (6) Operator--S (for special mechanical equipment).


Sec.  578.95  Glider Badge (Rescinded).

    (a) Effective May 3, 1961, the Glider Badge is no longer awarded. 
An individual who was awarded the badge upon satisfying then current 
eligibility requirements may continue to wear the badge. Further, it 
may be awarded retroactively upon application to the Commander, USA HRC 
(see Sec.  578.3(c) for address), when it can be established by means 
of sufficient documentation that the proficiency tests then prescribed 
were satisfactorily completed while assigned or attached to an airborne 
unit or to the Airborne Department of the Infantry School, or by 
participation in at least one combat glider landing into enemy-held 
territory as a member of an organized force carrying out an assigned 
tactical mission for which the unit was credited with an airborne 
assault landing by the theater commander.
    (b) Description. An oxidized silver badge \11/16\ inch in height 
and 1\1/2\ inches in width consisting of a glider, frontal view, 
superimposed upon a pair of stylized wings displayed and curving 
inward.


Sec.  578.96  Nuclear Reactor Operator Badge (Rescinded).

    (a) Effective October 1, 1990, the Nuclear Reactor Operator Badges 
are no longer awarded. The Army has not conducted nuclear reactor 
operations or nuclear reactor operator training in several years. 
Accordingly, the Nuclear Reactor Operator Badges will no longer be 
awarded. Current Army recipients who were permanently awarded any 
degree of the badge may continue to wear it on the Army uniform. AR 
672-5-1, dated October 1, 1990, terminated authorization to award the 
badge.
    (b) Description--(1) Basic. On a \7/8\ inch square centered on two 
horizontal bars each \1/8\ inch in width separated by a \3/32\ inch 
square and protruding \1/8\ inch from each side of the square, a disc 
\3/4\ inch in diameter bearing the symbol of the planet Uranus all 
silver colored metal \7/8\ inch in height overall.
    (2) Second Class Operator. The basic badge reduced in size placed 
on and partially encircled at the base by an open laurel wreath, the 
ends of the upper bar resting on the tips of the wreath, all of silver 
colored metal 1 inch in height overall. The areas between the wreath 
and the basic badge are pierced.
    (3) First Class Operator. The basic badge reduced in size is placed 
on and entirely encircled by a closed laurel wreath all of silver 
colored metal 1 inch in height overall. The areas between the wreath 
and the basic badge are pierced.
    (4) Shift Supervisor. The design of the Shift Supervisor Badge is 
the same as the First Class Operator Badge, except it is gold colored 
metal.


Sec.  578.97  Marksmanship Qualification Badge.

    (a) Eligibility criteria. A basic marksmanship qualification badge 
is awarded to indicate the degree in which an individual, military or 
civilian, has qualified in a prescribed record course and an 
appropriate bar is furnished to

[[Page 17325]]

denote each weapon with which he or she qualified. Each bar will be 
attached to the basic badge that indicates the qualification last 
attained with the respective weapon. Basic qualification badges are of 
three classes. Expert, sharpshooter, and marksman. The only weapons for 
which component bars are authorized are listed in Table 10. Basic 
marksmanship qualification badges are awarded to U.S. military and 
civilian personnel, and to foreign military personnel who qualify as 
prescribed.
    (b) Approval authority--(1) To military personnel. Any commander in 
the rank or position of lieutenant colonel or higher may make awards to 
members of the Armed Forces of the United States; Camp/Post Commanders, 
Professors of Military Science, Directors of Army Instruction/Senior 
Army Instructors (DAI/SAI) or Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC)/ 
Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) units may make awards 
to members of the ROTC/JROTC.
    (2) To civilian personnel. Installation commanders may make the 
authorization for civilian guards to wear marksmanship badges. Civilian 
guards will procure badges at their own expense.
    (c) Description. (1) Expert. A white metal (silver, nickel and 
rhodium), 1.17 inches in height, a cross patee with the representation 
of a target placed on the center thereof and enclosed by a wreath;
    (2) Sharpshooter: A white metal (silver, nickel, and rhodium), 1 
inch in height, a cross patee with the representation of a target 
placed on the center thereof;
    (3) Marksman. A white metal (silver, nickel, and rhodium), 1 inch 
in height, a cross patee.
    (d) Component bars. Weapons for which component bars are authorized 
are provided in Table 10 below.

       Table 10.--Weapons for Which Component Bars Are Authorized
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Weapon                             Inscription
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rifle.....................................  Rifle.
Pistol....................................  Pistol.
Antiaircraft artillery....................  AA Artillery.
Automatic rifle...........................  Auto Rifle.
Machinegun................................  Machinegun.
Field Artillery...........................  Field Arty.
Tank Weapons..............................  Tank Weapons.
Flamethrower..............................  Flamethrower.
Submachine Gun............................  Submachine Gun.
Rocket Launcher...........................  Rocket Launcher.
Grenade...................................  Grenade.
Carbine...................................  Carbine.
Recoilless rifle..........................  Recoilless rifle.
Mortar....................................  Mortar.
Bayonet...................................  Bayonet.
Rifle, small bore.........................  Small bore rifle.
Pistol, small bore........................  Small bore pistol.
Missile...................................  Missile.
Aeroweapons...............................  Aeroweapons.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec.  578.98  Ranger Tab.

    (a) Basic eligibility criteria. The basic eligibility criteria for 
award of the Ranger Tab is as follows:
    (1) Successful completion of a Ranger course conducted by the U.S. 
Army Infantry School.
    (2) Any person who was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge while 
serving during World War II as a member of a Ranger Battalion (1st-6th 
inclusive) or in the 5307th Composite Unit (Provisional) (Merrill's 
Marauders).
    (3) Any person who successfully completed a Ranger course conducted 
by the Ranger Training Command at Fort Benning, GA.
    (b) Award approval authority. The Commandant of the U.S. Army 
Infantry School; CG, USA HRC, and the Cdr, USA HRC-St. Louis, may award 
the Ranger Tab.
    (c) Description. The ranger qualification tab is 2\3/8\ inches wide 
with a black embroidered background and yellow embroidered border and 
letters. A subdued version with olive drab background and border and 
black letters is authorized for work uniforms.


Sec.  578.99  Special Forces Tab.

    (a) Basic eligibility criteria. Any person meeting one of the 
criteria below may be awarded the Special Forces (SF) Tab:
    (1) Successful completion of USAJFKSWCS approved Active Component 
(AC) institutional training leading to SF qualification;
    (2) Successful completion of a USAJFKSWCS approved Reserve 
Component (RC) SF qualification program;
    (3) Successful completion of an authorized unit administered SF 
qualification program.
    (b) Award approval authority. The Commander, U.S. Army John F. 
Kennedy Special Warfare Center (USAJFKSWCS), Fort Bragg, NC 28307-5000.
    (c) Active Component institutional training. The SF Tab may be 
awarded to all personnel who successfully complete the Special Forces 
Qualification Course or Special Forces Detachment Officer Qualification 
Course (previously known as the Special Forces Officer Course). These 
courses are/were conducted by the USAJFKSWC (previously known as the 
U.S. Army Institute for Military Assistance).
    (d) Reserve Component SF qualification programs. The SF Tab may be 
awarded to all personnel who successfully complete a RC SF 
qualification program according to TRADOC Regulation 135-5, dated June 
1, 1988 or its predecessors. The USAJFKSWCS will determine individual 
entitlement for award of the SF Tab based on historical review of Army, 
Continental Army Command (CONRAC), and TRADOC regulations prescribing 
SF qualification requirements in effect at the time the individual 
began an RC SF qualification program.
    (e) Unit administered SF qualification programs. The SF Tab may be 
awarded to all personnel who successfully completed unit administered 
SF qualification programs as authorized by regulation. The USAJFKSWCS 
will determine individual entitlement to award of the SF Tab based upon 
historical review of regulations prescribing SF qualification 
requirements in effect at the time the individual began a unit 
administered SF qualification program.
    (f) Wartime service. The SF Tab may be awarded to all personnel who 
performed the following wartime service.
    (1) Prior to 1955. Service for at least 120 consecutive days in one 
of the following organizations: 1st Special Service Force, August 1942 
to December 1944, OSS Detachment 101, April 1942 to September 1945, OSS 
Jedburgh Detachments, May 1944 to May 1945, OSS Operational Groups, May 
1944 to May 1945, OSS Maritime Unit, April 1942 to September 1945, 6th 
Army Special Reconnaissance Unit (Alamo Scouts), February 1944 to 
September 1945, and 8240th Army Unit, June 1950 to July 1953.
    (2) 1955 through 1975. Any company grade officer or enlisted member 
awarded the CIB while serving for at least 120 consecutive days in one 
of the following type organizations: SF Operational Detachment-A (A-
Team), Mobile Strike Force, SF Reconnaissance Team, and SF Special 
Project Unit.
    (g) Description. The SF Tab is 3\1/4\ inches wide with a teal blue 
embroidered background and border and yellow embroidered letters. A 
subdued version with olive drab background and borders and black 
letters is authorized for work uniforms. A metal SF Badge is authorized 
for wear on the mess/dress uniforms and green shirt.

[[Page 17326]]

Sec.  578.100  Sapper Tab.

    (a) Purpose. The Sapper Tab was established by the Chief of Staff, 
Army, on June 28, 2004. It is authorized for award to U.S. military and 
civilian personnel and foreign military personnel who meet the 
prescribed eligibility criteria.
    (b) Basic eligibility criteria. The basic eligibility criteria for 
award of the Sapper Tab is as follows:
    (1) Successful graduation of a Sapper Leader Course conducted by 
the U.S. Army Engineer School.
    (2) Any person who successfully graduates from a Sapper Leaders 
Course conducted by the U.S. Army Engineer School at Fort Leonard Wood, 
MO.
    (3) The tab may be awarded retroactively to any person who 
successfully completed the Sapper Leaders Course on or after June 14, 
1985.
    (c) Revocation. The Sapper Tab may be revoked by the Commandant, 
U.S. Army Engineer School or the CG, USA HRC based on the 
recommendation of the field commander (Colonel and above) of the 
individual in question. This can be based on the opinion of that 
commander, that the individual has exhibited a pattern of behavior, 
expertise or duty performance that is inconsistent with expectations of 
the Army, that is, degree of confidence, commitment, competency and 
discipline. Award of the Sapper Tab may be revoked for any of the 
following conditions:
    (1) Dismissal, dishonorable discharge, or conviction by court's 
martial for desertion in time of war.
    (2) Failure to maintain prescribed standards of personal fitness 
and readiness to accomplish missions commensurate with position and 
rank.
    (3) Upon relief or release for cause.
    (d) Award approval authority. The Commandant of the U.S. Army 
Engineer School and the CG, USA HRC, may award the Sapper Tab.
    (e) Description. The full color tab is 2\3/8\ inches (6.03 cm) 
long, \11/16\ inch (1.75 cm) wide, with a \1/8\ inch (.32 cm) red 
border and the word ``SAPPER'' inscribed in white letters \5/16\ inch 
(1.79 cm) high. The woodland subdued tab is identical, except the 
background is olive drab and the word ``SAPPER'' is in black letters 
and the desert subdued tab has a khaki background with the word 
``SAPPER'' in spice brown letters.


Sec.  578.101  Physical Fitness Badge.

    (a) The Physical Fitness Badge was established by the Secretary of 
the Army on June 25, 1986. Effective February 1, 1999, soldiers who 
obtain a minimum score of 270 or above, with a minimum of 90 points per 
event on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and meet the body fat 
standards will be awarded the Physical Fitness Badge for Physical 
Fitness Excellence. Soldiers are required to meet the above criteria 
each record test to continue to wear the badge. Units can obtain APFT 
Standards and the new APFT Card (DA Form 705, dated June 1998) off the 
World Wide Web at http:/www.benning.army.mil/usapfs/. Permanent Orders 
are not required for award of the Physical Fitness Badge.
    (b) Description. On a dark blue disc 1\5/8\ inches (4.13 cm) in 
diameter edged dark blue; a yellow stylized human figure with arms 
outstretched in front of a representation of the coat of arms of the 
United States displaying six stars (three on each side of the figure 
and thirteen alternating white and red stripes, all encircled by a 
Brittany blue designation band inscribed ``PHYSICAL FITNESS'' at top 
and ``EXCELLENCE'' below separated on either side by a star, all navy 
blue; edged with a \1/8\ inch (.32 cm) navy blue border. Overall 
diameter is 2\5/8\ inches (6.67 cm).


Sec.  578.102  U.S. Civilian Marksmanship Program.

    The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) was created by the U.S. 
Congress. The original purpose was to provide civilians an opportunity 
to learn and practice marksmanship skills so they would be skilled 
marksmen if later called on to service the U.S. military. Over the 
years the emphasis of the program shifted to focus on youth development 
through marksmanship. From 1916 to 1996 the CMP was administered by the 
U.S. Army. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 
(Title 10) created the Corporation for the (CPRPFS) Promotion of Rifle 
Practice and Firearms Safety, Inc. to take over administration and 
promotion of the CMP. The CPRPFS is a tax exempt not-for-profit 
501(c)(3) organization that derives its mission from public law. The 
address for the CMP headquarters is PO Box 576, Port Clinton, Ohio, 
43452.


Sec.  578.103  President's Hundred Tab.

    (a) The President's Hundred Tab is awarded to soldiers who qualify 
among the top scoring 100 competitors in the President's Match.
    (b) Background. (1) The National Rifle Association's (NRA) 
President's Match was instituted at the NRA matches of 1878, as the 
American Military Rifle Championship Match. It was patterned after an 
event for British Volunteers called the Queen's Match, which the NRA of 
Great Britain had initiated in 1860. In 1884, the name was changed to 
the President's Match for the Military Rifle Championship of the United 
States. It was fired at Creedmor, New York until 1891. In 1895, it was 
reintroduced at Sea Girt, New Jersey.
    (2) The tradition of making a letter from the President of the 
United States the first prize began in 1904 when President Theodore 
Roosevelt, at the conclusion of the President's Match, personally wrote 
a letter of congratulations to the winner, Private Howard Gensch of the 
1st Regiment of Infantry of the New Jersey National Guard.
    (3) It cannot be ascertained as to when the President's Match was 
discontinued; however, it is known that it was not fired during World 
Wars I and II. It appears to have disappeared during the 1930s and 
during the depression when lack of funds severely curtailed the holding 
of matches of importance.
    (4) The President's Match was reinstated in 1957 at the National 
Matches as ``The President's Hundred.'' The top-scoring 100 competitors 
in the President's Match were singled out for special recognition in a 
retreat ceremony in which they passed in review before the winner and 
former winners of this historic match.
    (5) On May 27, 1958, the NRA requested the Deputy Chief of Staff, 
G-1 approval of a tab for presentation to each member of the 
``President's Hundred.'' The NRA's plan was to award the cloth tab 
together with a metal tab during the 1958 National Matches. The cloth 
tab was of high level interest and approved for wear on the Army 
uniform on March 3, 1958. The first awards were made at Camp Perry, 
Ohio, in early September 1958. The metal tab was never officially 
authorized for wear on the uniform by military personnel. However, the 
NRA issued the metal tab to military personnel for wear on the shooting 
jacket.
    (c) Description. A full-color embroidered tab of yellow 4\1/4\ 
inches (10.80 cm) in length and \5/8\ inch (1.59 cm) in height, with 
the words ``President's Hundred'' centered in \1/4\ inch (.64 cm) high 
green letters.


Sec.  578.104  Identification Badges.

    (a) Intent. Identification Badges are authorized to be worn as 
public evidence of deserved honor and distinction to denote service 
performed in specified assignments in the White House, in the Office of 
the Secretary of Defense; in the Organization of the Joint Chiefs of 
Staff, in the Office of the Secretary of the Army or as members of the 
General Staff; as members of the Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier;

[[Page 17327]]

as a Drill Sergeant; as a U.S. Army Recruiter, as an Army National 
Guard Recruiter, as a U.S. Army Reserve Recruiter; or as a Career 
Counselor.
    (b) It should be noted that some of the identification badges are 
not Department of the Army badges. Criteria and eligibility is subject 
to change and individuals are advised to contact the badge proponent 
for additional information and guidance.
    (c) Eligibility requirements for the Identification Badges are 
provided in Sec. Sec.  578.105 through 578.116.


Sec.  578.105  Presidential Service Badge and Certificate.

    (a) The Presidential Service Badge and the Presidential Service 
Certificate were established by Executive Order 11174, September 1, 
1964 as amended by Executive Order 11407, April 23, 1968; Executive 
Order 11520, March 25, 1970; and Executive Order 12793, March 20, 1992. 
This award replaced the White House Service Badge and Certificate 
established by Executive Order 10879, June 1, 1960.
    (b) The certificate is awarded, in the name of the President by the 
Secretary of the Army, to members of the Army who have been assigned to 
the White House Office; to military units and support facilities under 
the administration of the White House Military Office or to other 
direct support positions with the Executive Office of the President 
(EOP). The certificate will not be issued to any member who is issued a 
Vice Presidential Certificate or similar EOP Certificate, for the same 
period of service. Such assignment must be for a period of at least one 
year, subsequent to January 21, 1989.
    (c) The badge is awarded to those members of the Armed Forces who 
have been granted the Certificate and is awarded in the same manner in 
which the certificate is given. Once the badge is awarded, it may be 
worn as a permanent part of the uniform.
    (d) Only one certificate will be awarded to an individual during an 
administration. Only one badge will be awarded to an individual 
regardless of the number of certificates received.
    (e) The Presidential Service Badge and Certificate may be awarded 
posthumously.


Sec.  578.106  Vice Presidential Service Badge and Certificate.

    (a) The Vice Presidential Service Badge was established by 
Executive Order 11926, July 19, 1976.
    (b) The badge is awarded upon recommendation of the Military 
Assistant to the Vice President, by the Secretary of the Army to U.S. 
Army personnel who have been assigned to duty in the Office of the Vice 
President for at least 1 year after December 19, 1974.
    (c) The badge shall be accompanied by a certificate, which is 
awarded in the same manner in which the badge is given. Once the badge 
is awarded it may be worn as a permanent part of the uniform.
    (d) Only one badge will be awarded to an individual during an 
administration. Only one badge will be awarded to an individual 
regardless of the number of certificates received.
    (e) The Vice Presidential Service Badge and Certificate may be 
awarded posthumously.


Sec.  578.107  Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge.

    (a) The Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge is 
authorized under 10 U.S.C., to provide a distinct identification of 
military staff members while assigned and, after reassignment, to 
indicate that the service member satisfactorily served on the Secretary 
of Defense's staff. The prescribing directive for this badge is DOD 
1348.33-M, Manual of Military Decorations and Awards.
    (b) Description. The badge, 2 inches in diameter, consists of an 
eagle with wings displayed horizontally grasping three crossed arrows 
all gold bearing on its breast a shield paleways of thirteen pieces 
argent and gules a chief azure, a gold annulet passing behind the wing 
tips bearing thirteen gold stars above the eagle and a wreath of laurel 
and olive in green enamel below the eagle, the whole superimposed on a 
silver sunburst of 33 rays.


Sec.  578.108  Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge.

    (a) A certificate of eligibility may be issued to military 
personnel who have been assigned to duty and have served not less than 
1 year after January 14, 1961 in a position of responsibility under the 
direct cognizance of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The individual must 
have served in a position which requires as a primary duty the 
creation, development, or coordination of policies, principles, or 
concepts pertaining to a primary function of the organization of the 
Joint Chiefs of Staff and must be approved for authorization to wear 
the badge by the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff; the Director, Joint 
Staff; the head of a Directorate of the Joint Staff; or one of the 
subordinate agencies of the organization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. 
The certificate of eligibility constitutes authority for wearing the 
badge as a permanent part of the uniform.
    (b) Description. Within an oral silver metal wreath of laurel, 2\1/
4\ inches in height and 2 inches in width overall, the shield on the 
United States (the chief in blue enamel and the 13 stripes alternating 
white and red enamel) superimposed on four gold metal unsheathed 
swords, two in pale and two in saltire with points to chief, the points 
and pommels resting on the wreath, the blades and grips entwined with a 
gold metal continuous scroll surrounding the shield with the word JOINT 
at the top and the words CHIEFS OF STAFF at the bottom, all in blue 
enamel letters.


Sec.  578.109  Army Staff Identification Badge.

    (a) The Army Staff Identification Badge (ASIB) and Army Staff Lapel 
Pin (ASLP) are neither awards nor decorations but are distinguished 
marks of service at HQDA. They are visible signs of professional growth 
associated with the important duties and responsibilities of the Army 
Secretariat and the Army Staff (ARSTAF). Issuance of the ASIB and the 
ASLP is not automatic, but is based on demonstrated outstanding 
performance of duty and approval by a principal HQDA official. 
Eligibility for the ASIB does not constitute eligibility for the ASLP; 
likewise, eligibility for the ASLP does not constitute eligibility for 
the ASIB.
    (b) Description. The Coat of Arms of the United States in gold with 
the stripes of the shield to be enameled white and red and chief of the 
shield and the sky of the glory to be enameled blue, superimposed on a 
five-pointed black enameled star; in each reentrant angle of the star 
are three green enameled laurel leaves. The star is 3 inches in 
diameter for the Chief of Staff and former Chiefs of Staff and a 2 
inches in diameter badge is authorized for all other personnel awarded 
the badge.


Sec.  578. 110  Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification 
Badge.

    (a) Wear. (1) The Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification 
Badge will be authorized by the Commanding Officer, 3d U.S. Infantry 
Regiment (The Old Guard), for wear by each member of the Tomb of the 
Unknown Soldier who have met all specified criteria for earning the 
badge. Only soldiers serving in the following positions are authorized 
to earn the badge:
    (i) Commander of the Guard (Platoon Leader).
    (ii) Sergeant of the Guard (Platoon Sergeant).
    (iii) Commander of the Relief.
    (iv) Sentinels.
    (2) Effective December 17, 1963 the Commanding Officer, 3d U.S. 
Infantry

[[Page 17328]]

Regiment (The Old Guard), may authorize the wearing of the badge as a 
permanent part of the uniform for personnel who:
    (i) Have served honorably for a minimum of 9 months, which need not 
be continuous, as a member of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
    (ii) Have met all specified criteria for earning the badge.
    (iii) Have been recommended by the Commanding Officer, E Company, 
3d Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard).
    (3) If soldiers who have served honorable meet all specified 
criteria for earning the badge prior to serving 9 total months as a 
member of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and are recommended by the 
Commanding Officer, E Company (Honor Guard), 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment 
(The Old Guard), temporary wear of the badge may be authorized by the 
Commanding Officer, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard).
    (4) Soldiers who are moved from authorized positions prior to 
completion of 9 total months may be considered for permanent award on a 
case-by-case basis by the Commanding Officer, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment 
(The Old Guard).
    (b) Authorization. (1) Authorization of the badge as a uniform item 
will be made by order of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment Commander citing 
this paragraph as authority. This order will constitute authority for 
individuals to wear the badge as a part of their military uniform. 
Original issue of the badge will be made by the Commanding Officer of 
the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). Replacements will be 
purchased from approved commercial sources to ensure the quality of the 
badge.
    (2) This award is retroactive to February 1, 1958 for personnel in 
the Active Army. This date reflects when the badge was first created 
and recognized by the Army for official wear. Former soldiers may apply 
to Commander, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), Fort Myer, VA 
22211-5020.
    (c) Revocation. (1) When the Commander of The Old Guard becomes 
aware of information about a current or former member of the Tomb of 
the Unknown Soldier who was authorized permanent wear of the Tomb 
Identification Badge that suggests inappropriate conduct, including, 
but not limited to, acts of commission or omission for a member of that 
unit, or the intention to engage in inappropriate conduct, he will 
notify the Commander, E Company (Honor Guard), 3d U.S. Infantry 
Regiment (The Old Guard). The Commander, E Company (Honor Guard) will 
conduct a Commander's Inquiry to determine if the matter warrants 
further investigation, or if there is sufficient information to 
recommend to the Commanding Officer, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old 
Guard) that the Tomb Identification Badge be revoked or that the 
soldier be reassigned, or both.
    (2) Nothing stated in this section prevents the Regimental 
Commander from taking peremptory action deemed necessary or appropriate 
to protect the interests of the U.S. Army, the 3d U.S. Infantry 
Regiment (The Old Guard), or the soldiers under his command. Authority 
to revoke the badge remains with Commanding Officer, 3d U.S. Infantry 
Regiment (The Old Guard). Revocation will be announced in permanent 
orders.
    (d) Reinstatement. Requests to have the badge reinstated will be 
directed to the current Commanding Officer, Headquarters, 3d U.S. 
Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), Fort Myer, VA 22211-1199. Requests 
will be reviewed upon receipt of all information and forwarded to the 
reinstatement authority with a recommendation. Approval authority for 
reinstatement of the badge is the Commander, USA HRC (see Sec.  
578.3(c) for address).
    (e) Description. A silver color metal badge 2 inches in width and 
1\15/32\ inches in height, consisting of an inverted open laurel wreath 
surmounted by a representation of the front elevation of the Tomb of 
the Unknown Soldier, the upper section containing the three figures of 
Peace, Victory, and Valor, the base bearing in two lines the words 
``HONOR GUARD'', all in low relief.


Sec.  578.111  Army ROTC Nurse Cadet Program Identification Badge.

    This badge is authorized for issue to and wear by contracted ROTC 
cadets enrolled in a program leading to a baccalaureate degree in 
nursing. It was formerly referred to as the Army Student Nurse Program 
Identification Badge.


Sec.  578.112  Drill Sergeant Identification Badge.

    (a) Eligibility. Successful completion of the Drill Sergeant course 
and assignment as a drill sergeant to a training command.
    (b) Authorization. The Commandant of the Drill Sergeant School will 
authorize the permanent wear of the badge to eligible personnel by 
memorandum. Officers are authorized to wear this badge if it was 
permanently awarded to them while in an enlisted status.
    (c) Description--(1) Metal. A gold plated metal and enamel 
insignia, 2 inches (5.08 cm) in width and 1\51/64\ inches (4.56 cm) in 
height, consisting of a flaming torch above a breast plate and jupon in 
front of a rattlesnake on a green background, grasping in its mouth at 
upper right and with its tail at upper left, the ends of an encircling 
scroll inscribed ``THIS WE'LL DEFEND'' in black letters, between 13 
black star, 7 on the left and 6 on the right.
    (2) Embroidered. An embroidered insignia, as described above in 
subdued colors, except the size is 2\3/4\ inches (6.99 cm) in width and 
2\1/2\ inches (6.35 cm) in height. The insignia is on a olive drab 
square background measuring 3\1/2\ inches (8.89 cm) in width and 
height.


Sec.  578.113  U.S. Army Recruiter Identification Badge.

    (a) The U.S. Army Basic Recruiter Badge is authorized for wear by 
military personnel assigned or attached to the U.S. Army Recruiting 
Command (USAREC) as designated by the CG, USAREC. One, two, or three 
gold achievement stars may be awarded to eligible personnel meeting the 
criteria established for each achievement star by the CG, USAREC. These 
stars will be affixed to the basic badge.
    (b) The U.S. Army Gold Recruiter Badge is authorized for wear by 
eligible personnel meeting the criteria established by the CG, USAREC. 
One, two, or three sapphire achievement stars may be awarded to 
eligible personnel meeting the criteria established for each 
achievement star by the CG, USAREC. These stars will be affixed to the 
gold badge.
    (c) Description. A silver or gold color metal device 2\1/8\ inches 
(5.4 cm) in height overall consisting of a circular band inscribed, 
between two narrow green enamel borders, with the words ``U.S. ARMY'' 
on the left and ``RECRUITER'' on the right, in silver letters, reading 
clockwise and at bottom center three five-pointed stars; perched upon 
the inside edge of the band at bottom center an eagle looking to its 
right its wings raised vertically and extended over the top of the band 
and supported between its wings diagonally from lower left to upper 
right a flaming torch with both ends extended outside the band.


Sec.  578.114  Career Counselor Badge.

    (a) The Career Counselor Badge may be authorized for wear by 
enlisted personnel assigned to authorized duty positions which requires 
Primary Military Occupational Specialty (PMOS) 79S (Career Counselor). 
The award is retroactive to January 1, 1972.
    (b) Description. An oxidized silver badge 1\7/8\ inches in height 
overall consisting of an eagle with raised and

[[Page 17329]]

outstretched wings standing upon, at the point of the intersection, the 
shaft of a spear to the left and the barrel of a musket with fixed 
bayonet to the right, weapons terminated just below the point of 
crossing, and all enclosed by a horizontal oval-shaped frame, its lower 
half consisting of a scroll inscribed with the words ``CAREER 
COUNSELOR'' in raised letters, the upper half composed of two olive 
branches issuing from the ends of the scroll at either side and passing 
behind the eagle's wing tips, meeting at top center; all areas between 
the eagle, spear and musket and the frame are pierced.


Sec.  578.115  Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention 
Identification Badges.

    The National Guard Bureau (NGB-ARP) is the proponent agency for the 
Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Identification Badges. 
There are three degrees of badges that may be awarded; basic, senior, 
and master ARNG Recruiter Badges. See National Guard Regulation 672-2.


Sec.  578.116  U.S. Army Reserve Recruiter Identification Badge.

    The U.S. Army Reserve Recruiter Badge no longer exists as a 
separate identification badge. All Regular Army and Reserve Component 
recruiters only wear the U.S. Army Recruiter Identification Badges 
authorized in Sec.  578.109 of this part.


Sec.  578.117  Foreign and International Decorations and Awards to U.S. 
Army Personnel--General.

    (a) Guidelines. The provisions for receipt and acceptance, or 
prohibition thereof, of foreign decorations and badges outlined in this 
chapter apply to--
    (1) Active Army, Army National Guard, and U.S. Army Reserve 
soldiers to include retirees regardless of duty status.
    (2) All civilian employees of DA including experts and consultants 
under contract to DA.
    (3) All spouses, unless legally separated and family members of the 
personnel listed in paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) of this section.
    (b) The provisions for receipt and acceptance, or prohibition 
thereof, of foreign decorations and badges outlined in this chapter do 
not apply when:
    (1) A foreign decoration is awarded posthumously. Such decorations 
and accompanying documents will be forwarded to Commander, USA HRC, 
(see Sec.  578.3(c) for address), for delivery to next of kin.
    (2) The recipient of a decoration dies before approval of 
acceptance can be obtained.
    (3) A foreign decoration was awarded for service while the 
recipient was a bona fide member of the Armed Forces of a friendly 
foreign nation, provided the decoration was made prior to employment of 
the recipient by the U.S. Government.
    (4) A decoration for service in the Republic of Vietnam was 
accepted on or after March 1, 1961, but not later than March 28, 1973.
    (c) Restriction. No person will request, solicit, or otherwise 
encourage the tender of a foreign decoration. Whenever possible, 
personnel are obligated to initially refuse acceptance of foreign 
decorations.
    (d) Constitutional restriction. No person holding any office of 
profit or trust under the United States will, without the consent of 
the Congress, accept any present, emolument, office, or title of any 
kind whatsoever from any king, prince, or foreign state. (Constitution, 
Article. I, section. 9) This includes decorations and awards tendered 
by any official of a foreign government.
    (e) Congressional authorization. 5 U.S.C. 7342 authorizes members 
of the Army to accept, retain, and wear foreign decorations tendered in 
recognition of active field service in time of combat operations or 
awarded for other outstanding or unusually meritorious performance, 
subject to the approval of the Secretary of the Army.
    (f) Participation in ceremonies. Subject to the restriction in, an 
individual may participate in a ceremony and receive the tender of a 
foreign decoration. The receipt of the decoration will not constitute 
acceptance of the award by the recipient.
    (g) Disciplinary action. The wearing of unauthorized awards, 
decorations, or other devices is a violation of the Uniform Code of 
Military Justice and may subject a soldier to appropriate disciplinary 
action.


Sec.  578.118  Individual foreign decorations.

    Decorations received which have been tendered in recognition of 
active field service in connection with combat operations or which have 
been awarded for outstanding or unusually meritorious performance may 
be accepted and worn upon receiving the approval of HQ, USA HRC. In the 
absence of such approval, the decoration will become the property of 
the United States and will be deposited with HQ, USA HRC, for use or 
disposal.


Sec.  578.119  Foreign unit decorations.

    (a) During the period of military operations against an armed enemy 
and for 1 year thereafter; or while engaged in military operations 
involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or while serving 
with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an 
opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent 
party, Army Component commanders, or major Army commanders are 
authorized to accept foreign unit decorations tendered to brigades, 
battalions, or smaller units under their command. HQ, USA HRC (AHRC-
PDO-PA) will take final action on all tenders of foreign unit 
decorations to headquarters and headquarters companies of divisions and 
higher or comparable units. This authority will not be further 
delegated. Acceptance of foreign unit decorations will be reported to 
the CG, USA HRC for confirmation in DAGO. Confirmed foreign unit 
decorations are listed in DA Pamphlet 672-1 and DA Pamphlet 672-3.
    (b) Foreign unit decorations may be accepted only if all the 
following conditions are met:
    (1) The decoration is tendered by a friendly foreign nation for 
heroism or exceptionally meritorious service in direct support of 
military operations;
    (2) The decoration is one that is conferred by the national 
government of the foreign country upon units of its own Armed Forces; 
and
    (3) The unit is cited by name in orders of the national government 
of the foreign country.
    (c) Foreign unit decorations will be neither recommended by nor 
sought by the Department of the Army. Solicitation of foreign unit 
decorations by individuals or units within the Army is prohibited. 
Acceptance of foreign unit decorations will be approved by CG, USA HRC, 
only when the award is proffered by the foreign government based on 
services performed and without solicitation.
    (d) Display of foreign unit decorations. Awards of foreign unit 
decorations are evidenced by streamers, fourrageres, or lanyards 
attached to the pike or lance as a component part of organizational 
colors, distinguishing flags or guidons.
    (e) The streamer will be of colors corresponding to the ribbon of 
the unit decoration with the name of the action or the area of 
operations embroidered thereon. A separate streamer will be furnished 
for each award. The medal will be attached only on ceremonial 
occasions.
    (f) Additional foreign unit decorations which have been tendered 
and accepted but for which no streamer is authorized for unit colors 
and guidons are as follows:

[[Page 17330]]

    (1) Citation in the Order of the Day of the Belgian Army;
    (2) State of Vietnam Ribbon of Friendship;
    (3) Netherlands Orange Lanyard;
    (g) Emblems. (1) Normally when a unit is cited, only the 
organizational color, distinguishing flag, or guidon is decorated. 
Unless specifically authorized by orders of the foreign government and 
approved by CG, USA HRC, no emblem is issued but may be purchased for 
wear on the uniform. See AR 670-1 for information on wear of foreign 
unit awards.
    (2) The only emblems so far authorized for wear on the uniform to 
indicate a foreign decoration received by a unit are the French and 
Belgian Fourrageres, the Netherlands Orange Lanyard, the Philippine 
Republic Presidential Unit Citation Badge, the Republic of Korea 
Presidential Unit Citation Badge, the Vietnam Presidential Unit 
Citation Badge, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation 
Badge, and the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal Unit Citation 
Badges. Only the French Fourragere is authorized for temporary wear.
    (3) The following emblems are not sold by the Department of the 
Army, but may be purchased if desired from civilian dealers in military 
insignia and some Army Exchanges: Philippine Republic, Republic of 
Korea, and the Vietnam Presidential Unit Citations, the Republic of 
Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions 
Medal.


Sec.  578.120  Foreign badges.

    (a) Eligibility requirements. Qualification and special skill 
badges may be accepted if awarded in recognition of meeting the 
criteria, as established by the foreign government concerned, for the 
specific award. Only those badges that are awarded in recognition of 
military activities and by the military department of the host country 
are authorized for acceptance and permanent wear. Badges that do not 
meet these criteria may be authorized for acceptance but not for wear, 
and will not be entered in the official military records of the 
recipient. Of particular importance are the criteria established by the 
military department of the host country; for example, if a particular 
badge is authorized for award only to enlisted personnel of host 
country then badge may be accepted and worn by U.S. Army enlisted 
personnel.
    (b) Awarding authority. Commanders (overseas and CONUS) serving in 
the rank of brigadier general or higher and colonel level commanders 
who exercise general court-martial authority are delegated authority to 
approve the acceptance, retention, and permanent wear of foreign 
badges. This authority may be further delegated to commanders charged 
with custody of military personnel record files. The burden of proof 
rests on the individual soldier to produce valid justification, that 
is, orders, citations, or other original copies of the foreign elements 
that awarded them the badge. A list of approved badges are provided in 
Appendix D, AR 600-8-22 and the Army Awards Branch Web site: https://www.perscomonline.army.mil/tagd/awards/Appendix_D.doc. Request for 
accept and wear of any foreign badges not listed in Appendix D or the 
website will be forwarded to HQ, USA HRC (see Sec.  578.3(c) for 
address).
    (c) Other badges. Badges presented to Army personnel which do not 
fall under the category of qualification or special skill badges 
discussed in paragraph (a) of this section (honorary badges, 
identification devices, insignia) will be reported in accordance with 
AR 1-100, paragraph 6. Badges in these categories are considered gifts. 
They will not be authorized for wear nor entered in official military 
personnel records.
    (d) Wear. AR 670-1 governs the manner of wear of foreign 
qualification and special skill badges.


Sec.  578.121  United Nations Service Medal.

    (a) The United National Service Medal (UNSM) was established by 
United Nations General Assembly Resolution 483(V), December 12, 1950. 
Presidential acceptance for the United States Armed Forces was 
announced by the DOD on November 27, 1951.
    (b) Qualifications. To qualify for award of the UNSM, individuals 
must meet one of the following:
    (1) Members of the Armed Forces of the United States dispatched to 
Korea or adjacent areas for service on behalf of the United Nations in 
the action in Korea.
    (2) Other personnel dispatched to Korea or adjacent areas as 
members of paramilitary and quasi-military units designated by the U.S. 
Government for service in support of United Nations action in Korea and 
certified by the United Nations Commander in Chief as having directly 
supported military operations there.
    (3) Personnel awarded the Korean Service Medal automatically 
establish eligibility for the United Nations Service Medal.
    (4) Service with a national contingent designated by the U.S. 
Government for service in support of the United Nations action in Korea 
and certified by the United Nations Commander in Chief as having 
directly supported military operations in Korea.
    (c) Service requirements. Service will be for periods provided 
between June 27, 1950 and July 27, 1954, inclusive, under either of the 
following conditions:
    (1) Within the territorial limits of Korea or the waters 
immediately adjacent thereto or in the air over Korea or over such 
waters.
    (2) The service prescribed must have been performed while serving 
with any unit as provided in paragraphs (b)(1) and (2) of this section 
as specified below:
    (i) While on an assignment to such unit for any period between the 
dates specified above.
    (ii) While attached to such a unit for a period of 30 days 
consecutive or nonconsecutive, between the dates specified above.
    (iii) While in active combat against the enemy under conditions 
other than those prescribed in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section 
if a combat decoration has been awarded or an individual certificate 
testifying to such combat service has been furnished by the commander 
of an independent force or a division, ship, or air group, or 
comparable or higher unit.
    (d) Exclusions. No personnel of the United Nations or of its 
specialized agencies or of any national government service other than 
as prescribed above and no International Red Cross personnel engaged 
for service under the United Nations Commander in Chief with any United 
Nations relief team in Korea will be eligible for award of the medal.


Sec.  578.122  Inter-American Defense Board Medal.

    (a) The Inter-American Defense Board Medal was established by the 
Ninety-first Session of the Inter-American Defense Board on December 
11, 1945 and authorized by Executive Order 11446, January 18, 1969.
    (b) U.S. military personnel who have served on the Inter-American 
Defense Board for at least 1 year as chairman of the board, delegates, 
advisers, officers of the staff, officers of the secretariat, or 
officers of the Inter-American Defense College may wear the Inter-
American Defense Board ribbon permanently.
    (c) U.S. military personnel who have been awarded the Inter-
American Defense Board Medal and ribbon may wear them when attending 
meetings, ceremonies, or other functions where Latin American members 
of the Board are present.


Sec.  578.123  Philippine Defense Ribbon.

    The Philippine Defense Ribbon is awarded for service in the defense 
of the

[[Page 17331]]

Philippines from December 8, 1941 to June 15, 1942, under either of the 
following conditions:
    (a) Participation in any engagement against the enemy in Philippine 
territory, in Philippine waters, or in the air over the Philippines or 
over Philippine waters. An individual will be considered as having 
participated in an engagement if they meet one of the following:
    (1) Was a member of the defense garrison of the Bataan Peninsula or 
of the fortified islands at the entrance to Manila Bay.
    (2) Was a member of and present with a unit actually under enemy 
fire or air attack.
    (3) Served on a ship that was under enemy fire or air attack.
    (4) Was a crewmember or passenger in an airplane that was under 
enemy aerial or ground fire.
    (b) Assigned or stationed in Philippine territory or in Philippine 
waters for not less than 30 days during the period.
    (c) Individuals who meet conditions set forth in paragraphs (a) and 
(b) of this section are authorized to wear a bronze service star on the 
ribbon.


Sec.  578.124  Philippine Liberation Ribbon.

    (a) The Philippine Liberation Ribbon is authorized by DA Circular 
59, March 8, 1948.
    (b) It is awarded for service in the liberation of the Philippines 
from October 17, 1944 to September 3, 1945, under any of the following 
conditions:
    (1) Participated in the initial landing operations on Leyte or 
adjoining islands from October 17, 1944 to October 20, 1944. An 
individual will be considered as having participated in such operations 
if he landed on Leyte or adjoining islands, was on a ship in Philippine 
waters, or was a crewmember of an airplane, which flew over Philippine 
territory during the period.
    (2) Participated in any engagement against the enemy during the 
campaign on Leyte and adjoining islands. An individual will be 
considered as having participated in combat if he meets any of the 
conditions set forth in Philippine Defense Ribbon Sec.  578.123(a)(2) 
through (4).
    (3) Participated in any engagement against the enemy on islands 
other than those included in paragraph (b)(2) of this section. An 
individual will be considered as having participated in combat if he or 
she meets any of the conditions set forth in Philippine Defense Ribbon 
Sec.  578.123(a)(2) through (4).
    (4) Served in the Philippine Islands or on ships in Philippine 
waters for not less than 30 days during the period.
    (c) Bronze service stars. An individual who meets more than one of 
the conditions set forth in paragraph (a) of this section is authorized 
to wear a bronze service star on the ribbon for each additional 
condition under which he or she qualifies other than that under which 
he or she is eligible for the initial award of the ribbon.


Sec.  578.125  Philippine Independence Ribbon.

    The Philippine Independence Ribbon is authorized by DA Circular 59, 
1948. Any recipient of both the Philippine Defense and Philippine 
Liberation ribbons is eligible for award of the Philippine Independence 
Ribbon. United States Army personnel authorized to wear the Philippine 
Independence Ribbon under the established criteria, may continue to 
wear the ribbon, provided the authority for such wear was recorded 
before November 24, 1954.


Sec.  578.126  United Nations Medal.

    (a) Authorized by the Secretary General of the United Nations and 
Executive Order 11139, January 7, 1964. U.S. service members who are or 
have been in the service of the United Nations in operations designated 
by the Secretary of Defense may accept the United Nations Medal (UNM) 
when awarded by the Chief of the United Nations Mission.
    (b) Eligibility. The eligibility criteria for award of the UNM 
requires that an individual serve under the operational or tactical 
control of the United Nations and serve a minimum of 90 consecutive 
days in the service of the United Nations. The following United Nations 
missions/operations have been approved for acceptance and wear:
    (1) United Nations Observation Group in Lebanon (UNOGIL);
    (2) United Nations Truce Supervision Organization in Palestine 
(UNTSO);
    (3) United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan 
(UNMOGIP);
    (4) United Nations Security Forces, Hollandia (UNSFH);
    (5) United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC);
    (6) United Nations Advance Mission in Cambodia (UNAMIC);
    (7) United Nations Protection Force in Yugoslavia (UNPROFOR);
    (8) United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara 
(MINURSO);
    (9) United Nations Iraq/Kuwait Observation Mission (UNIKOM);
    (10) United Nations Operations in Somalia (to include U.S. Quick 
Reaction Force members) (UNOSOM);
    (11) United Nations Mission in Haiti (UNMIH);
    (12) United Nations Medal Special Service (UNMSS).
    (c) Wear. Each United Nations mission for which an UNM is awarded 
is commemorated by a suspension and service ribbon of unique colors and 
design. The ribbon and medallion combination take on the name of the 
specific operation for which the combination was created. For example, 
the operation in the Former Republic of Yugoslavia is the United 
Nations Protection Force (UNPROFOR), yielding the UNPROFOR Medal. 
Service members who are awarded an UNM may wear the first UNM with 
unique suspension and service ribbon for which they qualify. A bronze 
service star will denote subsequent awards of the UNM for service in a 
different United Nations mission. Only one United Nations ribbon is 
authorized for wear.
    (d) Presentation. The Senior Representative of the Secretary-
General who makes the award normally makes presentation of the UNM in 
the field. Approval authority to accept and wear the UNM to member of 
the Armed Forces of the United States is the Secretary of Defense. When 
presentation is not so accomplished, any person who believes he or she 
is eligible for award may submit to Commander, USA HRC, (see Sec.  
578.3(c) for address) and a request for such award with copy of any 
substantiating documents. Commander, AHRC will forward each such 
request through the Office of Internal Administration, Office of the 
Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs, to 
the United Nations for consideration.
    (e) Description--(1) Medal. The medal is bronze, 1\3/8\ inches in 
diameter, with a top view of the globe enclosed at sides and bottom by 
a wreath and the letters ``UN'' at the top of the medal. On the reverse 
side is the inscription ``IN THE SERVICE OF PEACE''. The United Nations 
Service Medal Korea is the same design, except the obverse does not 
include the letters ``UN'' and the medal has a hanger bar with the 
inscription ``KOREA''. On the reverse side of the United Nations 
Service Medal Korea is the inscription ``FOR SERVICE IN DEFENCE OF THE 
PRINCIPLES OF THE CHARTER OF THE UNITED NATIONS''.
    (2) Ribbon. Each United Nations mission for which a UNM is awarded 
is commemorated by a suspension and service ribbon of unique colors and 
design. The ribbon and medallion

[[Page 17332]]

combination take on the name of the specific operation for which the 
combination was created. For example, the operation in the Former 
Republic of Yugoslavia is the United Nations Protection Force 
(UNPROFOR), yielding the UNPROFOR Medal. Service members who are 
awarded a UNM may wear the first UNM with unique suspension and service 
ribbon for which they qualify. A bronze service star will be worn to 
denote subsequent awards of the UNM for service in a different United 
Nations mission. Only one United Nations ribbon is authorized for wear.


Sec.  578.127  North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Medal.

    (a) The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Medal is awarded 
by the Secretary-General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to 
military and civilian members of the Armed Forces of the United States 
who participate in NATO operations related to the former Republic of 
Yugoslavia. The Secretary of Defense authorized acceptance of the NATO 
Medal on November 14, 1995.
    (b) Acceptance. Acceptance of the NATO Medal has been approved for 
U.S. military personnel who serve under NATO command or operational 
control in direct support of NATO operations in the former Republic of 
Yugoslavia, or as designated by the Supreme Allied Command, Europe 
(SACEUR), from July 1, 1992 to a date to be determined.
    (c) Presentation. The NATO Medal will normally be presented by the 
Allied Command Europe headquarters exercising operational command or 
control over U.S. military units or individuals prior to their 
departure from service with NATO.
    (d) Medal set. The medal set includes a ribbon clasp denoting the 
specific operation for which the award was made. U.S. service members 
are authorized to retain the ribbon clasp presented but may not wear 
the clasp. Only the basic medal and service ribbon are authorized for 
wear on the uniform.
    (e) Subsequent awards. Subsequent awards (if approved by the 
Secretary of Defense) for service in a different NATO operation, U.S. 
military personnel will affix a bronze service star to the NATO Medal 
suspension ribbon and service ribbon.
    (f) Precedence. The NATO Medal shall have the same precedence as 
the United Nations Medal, but will rank immediately below the United 
Nations Medal when the wearer has been awarded both medals.
    (g) Description. The medal is bronze, 1\3/8\ inches in diameter, 
bearing on the obverse the NATO emblem (a four pointed star emitting a 
ray from each point superimposed on an annulet) enclosed in base by a 
wreath of olive. The reverse side has a band inscribed ``NORTH ATLANTIC 
TREATY ORGANIZATION'' at top and ``ORGANISATION DU TRAITE DE 
L'ATLANTIQUE NORD'' at the bottom. In the center is a sprig of olive 
between the inscription ``IN SERVICE OF PEACE AND FREEDOM'' above and 
``AU SERVICE DE LA PAIX ET DE LA LIBERTE'' below. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ 
inches wide and consists of the following stripes: \5/32\ inch Yale 
Blue 67176; \1/8\ inch White 67101; \13/16\ inch Yale Blue; \1/8\ inch 
White; and \5/32\ inch Yale Blue.


Sec.  578.128  Multinational Force and Observers Medal.

    (a) The Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) Medal was 
established by the Director General, Multinational Force and Observers, 
March 24, 1982. Presidential acceptance for the United States Armed 
Forces and DOD civilian personnel is announced by DOD on July 28, 1982.
    (b) Eligibility. To qualify for the award personnel must have 
served with the MFO at least ninety (90) cumulative days after August 
3, 1981. Effective March 15, 1985, personnel must serve 6 months (170 
days minimum) with the MFO to qualify for the award. Periods of service 
on behalf of the MFO outside of the Sinai, and periods of leave while a 
member is serving with the MFO, may be counted toward eligibility for 
the MFO medal. Qualifying time may be lost for disciplinary reasons.
    (c) Awards. The Director General, MFO makes awards, or in his or 
her name by officials to whom he or she delegates awarding authority.
    (d) Presentation. Presentations are usually to be made by personnel 
designated by the Director General, MFO. When presentation is not 
accomplished, any person with MFO service who believes he or she is 
eligible for the award may submit a request for the award to Commander, 
USA HRC, (see Sec.  578.3(c) for address). This request must include 
complete details related to MFO duty, including geographical location 
and inclusive dates of service, and copies of all substantiating 
documents. Commanding General, USA HRC, will then forward each such 
request through the Office of Internal Administration, Office of the 
Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs, to 
the Multinational Force and Observers for consideration.
    (e) Subsequent awards. An appropriate numeral starting with numeral 
2 will indicate second and subsequent awards for each completed 6-month 
tour. If an individual has not completed a cumulative 6-month tour, he 
or she is not eligible for award of the MFO medal unless one of the 
following conditions exists:
    (1) The award is to be made posthumously.
    (2) The member is medically evacuated due to service-incurred 
injuries or serious illness.
    (3) The member is withdrawn at the request of the parent Government 
for national service reasons under honorable conditions.


Sec.  578.129  Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

    (a) Criteria. The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal is awarded by 
the Government of the Republic of Vietnam to members of the United 
States Armed Forces and authorized by DOD 1348.33-M.
    (b) Requirements. To qualify for award personnel must meet one of 
the following requirements:
    (1) Have served in the Republic of Vietnam for 6 months during 
period specified in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (2) Have served outside the geographical limits of the Republic of 
Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the Republic of 
Vietnam and Armed Forces for 6 months. Such individuals must meet the 
criteria established for the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Vietnam) 
or the Vietnam Service Medal, during the period of service required to 
qualify for the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
    (3) Have served as in paragraph (b)(1) or (2) of this section for 
less than 6 months and have been one of the following:
    (i) Wounded by hostile forces.
    (ii) Captured by hostile forces, but later escaped, was rescued or 
released.
    (iii) Killed in action or otherwise in line of duty.
    (4) Personnel assigned in the Republic of Vietnam on January 28, 
1973 must meet one of the following: (i) Served a minimum of 60 days in 
the Republic of Vietnam as of that date.
    (ii) Completed a minimum of 60 days service in the Republic of 
Vietnam during the period from January 28, 1973 to March 28, 1973, 
inclusive.
    (c) Eligibility for award under authority of this paragraph is 
limited to the period from March 1, 1961 to March 2, 1973, inclusive. 
Eligibility for acceptance of this award solely by

[[Page 17333]]

virtue of service performed prior to March 1, 1961 or subsequent to 
March 1973 is governed by AR 600-8-22, paragraph 9-8.
    (d) The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device (1960) and 
the miniature medal are items of individual purchase.


Sec.  578.130  Kuwait Liberation Medal--Saudi Arabia.

    (a) The Kuwait Liberation Medal is awarded by the Government of 
Saudi Arabia to members of the Armed Forces of the United States and 
authorized by DOD on January 3, 1992.
    (b) It is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the U.S. who 
participated in Operation DESERT STORM between January 17, 1991 and 
February 28, 1991 in one or more of the following areas: Persian Gulf; 
Red Sea; Gulf of Oman; that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north 
of 10 degrees north latitude and west of 68 degrees east longitude; the 
Gulf of Aden; or the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, 
Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
    (c) To be eligible personnel must meet one of the following 
qualifications:
    (1) Be attached to or regularly serving for one or more days with 
an organization participating in ground or shore operations.
    (2) Be attached to or regularly serving for one or more days aboard 
a naval vessel directly supporting military operations.
    (3) Actually participate as a crew member in one or more aerial 
flights supporting military operations in the areas designated above.
    (4) Serve on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days during the 
period January 17, 1991 to February 28, 1991 under any of the criteria 
in paragraphs (b)(1) through (3) of this section. This time limit may 
be waived by HQ, USA HRC (AHRC-PDO-PA) for people participating in 
actual combat operations.
    (d) The eligibility period and geographic boundaries were specified 
by the Government of Saudi Arabia and may not be waived.
    (e) Posthumous award to the next of kin of any soldier who lost his 
or her life, while, or as a direct result of, participating in 
Operation DESERT STORM between January 17, 1991 and February 28, 1991, 
without regard to the length of such service, will be made by HQ, USA 
AHRC (AHRC-PDO-PA).
    (f) The Kuwait Liberation Medal, ribbon, and miniature medal are 
items of individual purchase. The Army accomplished an initial issue to 
eligible personnel from a one-time stock provided by the Government of 
Saudi Arabia in 1992.
    (g) Description. The medal is 1\25/32\ inches in width and is 
described as follows: On a gold sunburst with stylized silver rays, a 
glob depicting the Arabian Peninsula encircled by a wreath of palm 
between a scroll in the base inscribed ``Liberation of Kuwait'' and at 
the top a palm tree issuing from two diagonally crossed sabers, all 
gold. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and consists of the following 
stripes: \5/32\ inch Old Glory Red 67156; \4/64\ inch black 67138; \9/
64\ inch white stripe 67101; center \5/8\ inch irish green 67189; \9/
64\ inch white stripe 67101; \5/64\ inch black 67138; and \5/32\ inch 
Old Glory Red.


Sec.  578.131  Kuwait Liberation Medal--Kuwait.

    (a) The Kuwait Liberation Medal is awarded by the Government of 
Kuwait to members of the Armed Forces of the United States and 
authorized by the DOD on August 7, 1995.
    (b) It is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the U.S. who 
served in support of Operations DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM between 
August 2, 1990 and August 31, 1993 in one or more of the following 
areas: the Arabian Gulf; the Red Sea; the Gulf of Oman; that portion of 
the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees north latitude and west 
of 68 degrees east longitude; the Gulf of Aden; or the total land areas 
of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Omar, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United 
Arab Emirates.
    (c) To be eligible, personnel must meet one of the following 
qualifications:
    (1) Be attached to or regularly serving for one or more days with 
an organization participating in ground and/or shore operations.
    (2) Be attached to or regularly serving for one or more days aboard 
a naval vessel directly supporting military operations.
    (3) Actually participate as a crew member in one or more aerial 
flights directly supporting military operations in the areas designated 
above.
    (4) Serve on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 
nonconsecutive days during the period August 2, 1990 to August 31, 1993 
under any of the criteria in paragraphs (c)(1) through (3) of this 
section. This time limit may be waived by HQ, USA HRC (AHRC-PDO-PA) for 
soldiers participating in actual combat operations.
    (d) The eligibility period and geographic boundaries were specified 
by the Government of Kuwait and may not be waived.
    (e) Posthumous award to the next of kin of any soldier who lost his 
life, while, or as direct result of participating in Operations DESERT 
SHIELD/STORM between August 2, 1990 and August 31, 1993, without regard 
to the length of such service, will be made by HQ, USA HRC (AHRC-PDO-
PA).
    (f) The Government of Kuwait provided a one-time stock of the 
Kuwait Liberation Medal for initial issue to eligible personnel.
    (g) Description. A bronze metal and enamel, 1\9/16\ inches in 
diameter suspended from a bar by a wreath. A obverse bears the Coat of 
Arms of the State of Kuwait. The Coat of Arms consists of the shield of 
the flag design in color superimposed on a falcon with wings displayed. 
The falcon supports a disk containing a sailing ship with the full name 
of the State written at the top of the disk. At the top of the medal is 
the inscription ``1991 Liberation Medal'' in Arabic letters. The 
reverse side is the map of Kuwait on a rayed background. The ribbon is 
the pattern of the flag of the State of Kuwait and consists of three 
equal stripes \29/64\ inch each of the following colors: old glory red 
(cable 67156), white (cable 67101), and irish green (cable 67189). A 
black trapezium is at top of the ribbon drape and service ribbon.


Sec.  578.132  Republic of Korea War Service Medal.

    (a) The Republic of Korea War Service Medal (ROKWSM) was originally 
offered to the Armed Forces of the United States by the Ministry of 
Defense, Republic of Korea, on November 15, 1951. On 20 August 1999, 
the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Force Management & Policy) approved 
acceptance and wear of the medal for veterans of the Korean War.
    (b) Criteria. It is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who 
served in Korea and adjacent waters between June 25, 1950 and July 27, 
1953. The service prescribed must have been performed as follows:
    (1) While on permanent assignment; or
    (2) While on temporary duty within the territorial limits of Korea 
or on waters immediately adjacent thereto for 30 consecutive days or 60 
nonconsecutive days; or
    (3) While as crew members of aircraft, in aerial flight over Korea 
participating in actual combat operations or in support of combat 
operations.
    (c) Supply of the medal. The Air Force is the Executive Agency for 
the ROKWSM. Therefore, requests for award of the medal should be 
forwarded to the following address: HQ, Air Force Personnel Center, 
DPPPRK, 550 C Street

[[Page 17334]]

W, Suite 12, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4612.
    (d) Order of precedence. Order of precedence for non-U.S. service 
medals and ribbons is determined by date of approval. Accordingly, the 
ROKWSM will be worn after the Kuwait Liberation Medal--Government of 
Kuwait. For the majority of Korean War veterans, the medal will be worn 
after the United Nations Medal or the Republic of Vietnam Campaign 
Medal, if they served during the Vietnam Conflict era.
    (e) Description. A gold six pointed star with rays, 37mm in 
diameter, superimposed by a white enameled star, 42mm in diameter, 
overall in center a green disc, 18mm in diameter, with the outline of 
the Vietnamese country with a red flame of three rays between North and 
South Vietnam. On the reverse of the medal is a circle with a 
designated band containing the word ``CHIEN-DICH'' (Campaign) at the 
top and ``BOI-THINH'' (Medal) at the bottom. Across the center of the 
circle is the word ``VIET-NAM''. The ribbon is 1\3/8\ inches wide and 
consists of the following stripes: \1/16\ inch gherkin green 67183; \3/
16\ inch white 67101; \5/16\ inch gherkin green 67183; \1/4\ inch white 
67101; \5/16\ inch gherkin green 67183; \3/16\ inch white 67101; \1/16\ 
inch gherkin green 67183, and \3/16\ inch white 67101.


Sec.  578.133  Certificates for decorations.

    (a) Current issue. A certificate will be presented with each award 
of an authorized military decoration. In no case will a commander issue 
a certificate indicating award of a military decoration other than on 
the standard DA certificate for the awarded decoration. Awards 
certificates will be issued without reference to numbered oak leaf 
clusters.
    (b) Completion. Each certificate for award of the Legion of Merit 
(LM), Meritorious Service Medal (MSM), Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) 
and Army Achievement Medal (AAM) will be completed by the awarding 
commander and will bear his or her personal signature in the lower 
right corner. The Permanent Orders number and date are typed on the 
line on the left side of the LM, MSM, ARCOM, and AAM certificates. The 
grade, name, and branch of service, together with the place and dates 
of the act, achievement, or service of the recipient, will be inserted 
on the certificate in the appropriate spaces.
    (c) Replacement of Award Certificates--(1) Veterans and retirees. 
Veterans and retirees awarded U.S. military decorations to whom an 
appropriate certificate has not been issued may apply for such 
certificate by writing to the appropriate office indicated in Sec.  
578.66.
    (2) Active duty soldiers. Active duty soldiers may request 
replacement certificate through command channels to the headquarters 
currently having authority to award the decoration for which 
certificate is required. Each request should include a copy of the 
orders announcing the award. The replacement certificate will be 
annotated with the original order number (for example, Per Permanent 
Orders XX-XX, January 1, 2000).


Sec.  578.134  Certificate of Achievement.

    (a) Commanders may recognize periods of faithful service, acts, or 
achievements which do not meet the standards required for decorations 
by issuing to individual U.S. military personnel a DA Form 2442 
(Certificate of Achievement) or a Certificate of Achievement of local 
design.
    (b) Certificates of Achievement will be issued under such 
regulations as the local commander may prescribe.
    (c) If a locally designed Certificate of Achievement is printed for 
use according to this regulation, it may bear reproductions of 
insignia. In the interest of economy, the use of color will be held to 
a minimum.
    (d) The citation on such certificates will not be worded so that 
the act of service performed appears to warrant the award of a 
decoration.
    (e) No distinguishing device is authorized for wear to indicate the 
receipt of a Certificate of Achievement.


Sec.  578.135  Certificate of appreciation to employers.

    (a) To improve employer acceptance of the concept of military leave 
for participation in Reserve Component training and to encourage 
employers to adopt liberal military leave policies, certificates of 
appreciation may be presented to employers who have wholeheartedly and 
consistently cooperated in granting military leave to employees.
    (b) The Commanding Generals, TRADOC, FORSCOM, State adjutants 
general, Army Reserve General Officer Commands, Corps, and the U.S. 
Army Military District of Washington are authorized to make this award.
    (c) Certificates will be presented by the awarding commander or by 
an authorized representative, as appropriate.


Sec.  578.136  Certificates for badges.

    Commanders authorized to award badges may issue, simultaneously, 
appropriate certificates of achievement to persons under their command 
who have qualified for the respective badges. The certificate also may 
bear a citation which will follow closely the prescribed eligibility 
requirements for the respective badge.


Sec.  578.137  Cold War Recognition Certificate.

    Public Law 105-85, Section 1084, established a Cold War Recognition 
Certificate to recognize all members of the Armed Forces and qualified 
Federal government civilian personnel who faithfully and honorably 
served the United States during the Cold War Era from September 2, 1945 
to December 26, 1991. The Cold War Recognition System homepage at 
https://www.perscomonline.army.mil/tagd/coldwar/default.htm announces 
the program and provides instructions for individual requests.

[FR Doc. 06-2854 Filed 4-4-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3710-08-P