Military Decorations: Beyond Participation Awards

Do all military personnel get decorations, or only those who have done something significant while serving their country such as saving someone’s life? The answer to this question is multifaceted, involving a nuanced understanding of the various types of decorations and their requirements. Let's delve into the details.

Automatic and Unit-Level Awards: The Foundation

Many military members receive decorations that are not necessarily linked to specific achievements or actions of valor. These are often referred to as 'participation awards' or automatic awards, which are given to acknowledgment of basic service.

For example, Basic Training graduates (which include National Defense Medal, Army Service Ribbon) and those who complete their initial training receive basic recognition. Beyond this, many soldiers can expect to earn an Good Conduct Medal after three years of honorable service, provided they haven't encountered any disciplinary issues.

Addressing the Core Question

The core of your question revolves around the balance between service duration and performance. Service members with longer careers can accumulate a significant number of awards, including Army Achievement Medal or Army Commendation Medal, based on their individual and unit performance. However, engaging in high-level combat or performing exceptionally valorous actions can yield more prestigious awards.

Combat-Related Decorations

In combat scenarios, such as during Operations Urgent Fury, Just Cause, and the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, soldiers receive recognition from their respective nations and allies. For instance, Bronze Stars, Silver Stars, and Medals from countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan are common for participants. However, these awards tend to be reserved for those who have demonstrated significant valor or heroic actions.

It is rare for first-term soldiers to receive anything higher than a Bronze Star for Valor, with notable exceptions, such as Sergeant (posthumously) in Niger who earned the Silver Star.

Non-Combat Valor and the Soldier's Medal

In non-combat scenarios, those who risk their lives to save another person may be awarded the Soldier's Medal, the only decoration recognizing non-combat related valor.

High-Status Awards for NCOs, WOs, and Officers

For non-commissioned officers (NCOs), warrant officers (WOs), and officers, prestigious awards like the Meritorious Service Medal and Legion of Merit are typically awarded. These are usually granted to career service members for significant performance, leadership, and service. Examples might include those who have achieved distinguished combat roles or have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills.

Conclusion

In summary, almost all military personnel who perform well in their duties are recognized and awarded for their outstanding service. However, it is important to note that some service members may not receive any awards, even for extraordinary performance, due to various factors such as discharge issues or other complications.

In conclusion, both service duration and specific achievements significantly influence the types of decorations a military member may receive. Understanding the different categorizations of awards can provide insight into the complex nature of military recognition.