Awards and Decorations
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This is the Document Release Information | |
Article Number: | 7CAV-R-024 |
Scope: | Awards and Decorations |
Version: | Version 1.3 |
Effective Date: | 23MAY20 |
Last Modified Date: | 11MAR25 |
Approving Authority: | Regimental Commanding Officer |
Point of Contact: | Regimental Chief of Staff |
THIS DOCUMENT MAY NOT BE EDITED WITHOUT GENERAL STAFF APPROVAL
Chapter 1: Awards and Decorations
This document describes the guidelines, processes, and policy for awards and decorations awarded to members of the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment (7CAV). It provides principles of support, standards of service, policies, tasks, rules, steps, and classifications governing all work required in the field to support the process of issuing a medal or decoration to a member in the Regiment.
Responsibilities
- The Regimental Command Staff (Regimental Commanding Officer and Executive Officer) will serve as the senior officials on matters concerning awards and decorations, and will provide supervision of policy formulation, procedures, goals, systems, and standards.
- The Regimental Chief of Staff (COS) or their designate will be responsible for the execution and implementation of this regulation within the Regiment. Furthermore, the COS will supervise the processes described in this document. The Regimental Commanding Officer will serve as the final approval authority for all awards and decorations.
Chapter 2: Principles and Standards
Principles of Support
The General Staff will provide a centralized process for the policies and procedures for the recommendation, approval, and processing of awards and decorations awarded to members of the 7th Cavalry Regiment.
This regulation will define:
- The medals and decorations available to be awarded to members of the 7th Cavalry Regiment and their respective guidelines.
- The procedures involved with making a recommendation that a member, or unit be given an award or decoration.
- This will include who is authorized to make a recommendation for an award or decoration.
- The process by which an award or decoration is recorded in a member's permanent record (MILPACS).
Standards of Service
The standards of service are as follows:
- Awards and decorations are provided to highlight the achievements of an individual member or unit.
- While the Regiment provides guidelines for each award or decoration available, some awards are subjective in nature. An action considered heroic or valorous by one person may not necessarily be considered so by another.
- The Regimental Commanding Officer will serve as the final approval authority on all awards and decorations.
- Any General Grade Officer or the Regimental Command Sergeant Major may award a member an award or decoration on their prerogative.
- Any member in the 7th Cavalry may recommend another member for an award or decoration with the following exceptions:
- The member making the recommendation must outrank the member for whom they make the recommendation by billet. For example, a section member (Trooper) cannot make a recommendation to award his Section Leader, or anyone else above him in the Chain of Command.
- Recommendations must be made in person, meaning one member may not submit a recommendation on behalf of another.
Chapter 3: Policy
List of Awards
All awards and decorations available to be awarded to a member of the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment are listed in Chapter 5 through Chapter 14 of this document.
Description of Awards
The description for each award will serve as a guideline to earn the award. Some awards are subjective and approval is based on the view of the approval authority as they understand the information provided in the medal recommendation.
The Recommendation Process
- If a member wishes to make a medal recommendation for award they must submit their recommendation in writing using the allocated forum location for that purpose and the citation templates listed below. All members can submit a medal recommendation by submitting a medal recommendation ticket on our forums.
- Recommendations must be detailed. They must tell the story of the incident or action being recognized as well as provide the names of any witnesses to the action being recognized. This is not the same thing as the “Citation” which will appear on the award itself, but must provide enough information for the approval authority to make an informed decision.
- A summary of the information provided should be crafted in the Citation to be included with the award.
- To this end, the citation templates below are designed to accomplish the above goals so must be used.
- One recommendation post is made per award. If you wish to recommend 10 awards, you must make 10 recommendation posts.
- This does not apply to statutory awards such as Good Conduct Medals, Weapon Qualifications, and Skill Badges.
- Unit award recommendations should include all individuals in the unit being awarded.
- A single post may be made for multiple people receiving the same award for the same action or where the citation does not change.
- This does not apply to officially recognized medal packages, such as "Of the Quarter" and "Of the Year" award packages.
Medal Recommendation Policy
Criteria for recommending a medal:
- Write up a medal recommendation ticket for each individual member. Unless otherwise specified above, one citation for all members is prohibited.
- Use only the provided templates below.
- In the header for the medal recommendation you should have a picture of the medal, the name of the medal, the recommendee's full rank, first name, and last name that is linked to the member's MILPACS. The header and recommendation must be centered. In the body of the citation, the first time and last time a Trooper is mentioned, use Full Rank First Name Last Name as the naming format. In between, the Trooper's name should be referenced as Full Rank Last Name as the naming format.
- The award criteria of each medal must be adhered to for approval.
- Recommendations should be as detailed as possible and without spelling or grammatical errors.
- While S1 staff will do their best to fix minor formatting, spelling, and other grammatical errors on a medal recommendation, egregious errors will be sent back to the recommender to fix based upon the judgement and authority of S1 HQ or higher. The recommender will have up to 3 days to fix any egregious errors or the ticket will be closed.
- Though not required with the initial medal recommendation ticket, further justification may be requested by the approval authority to help aid them in their decision.
Authority on Combat Medal Recommendations
All medal recommendations must be produced by an individual who is of a higher billet and witnessed the event themselves. For official operations, S3 mission makers and temporarily made operation titles and/or billets do not supersede primary 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment billeting (see the Billets SOP for more info on billets). It is the responsibility of the operation's Officer-In-Command (OIC) to make sure all medal recommendations are being adhered to by the author of the medal, accounted for, and produced by their authors within one week of the After Action Report (AAR) posting. For more information on AAR policy, please see After Action Reports.
Members of a lower or equal billet may recommend their superiors for combat medals under the following conditions:
- The member making the recommendation must obtain 3 independent statements from three separate members who witnessed the combat actions or event for which is the inspiration of the award recommendation.
- The operation's OIC must be willing to sign off on the recommendation, and accept the consequences should a recommendation turn out to be fraudulent.
Another member may post a medal recommendation on behalf of someone else who is of a lesser billet under the following conditions:
- They credit the original author of the recommendation linking their MILPAC and declaring that they have signed off on the recommendation.
- The member posting the recommendation is to make sure to adjust the recommendation, if needed, to meet and maintain the current standards for that medal's criteria.
- The member posting the recommendation takes full responsibility for the recommendation regardless of the outcome or if the recommendation should turn out to be fraudulent.
Combat Medal Citations |
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Combat Medal CitationsArmy Commendation MedalAwarded for skillful or heroic actions over an entire operation where there was no one specific instance of heroism or skill. Army Commendation Medal
Rank First Last For (skillful/heroic) actions over an entire operation while serving as (combat element) in the 7th Cavalry Regiment during combat in operation (fill in operation title here) near (some town, some map) on (Day Month Year). (In this section, describe how the trooper demonstrated exceptional skill/heroism over the entire duration of the operation in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences containing the explanation leading up to the events, the events themselves, and the outcome of the events.) (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s (skillful/heroic) actions reflect great credit upon themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Army Commendation Medal With ValorAwarded for a single act of heroism or skill under fire. Army Commendation Medal with Valor
Rank First Last For a single act of heroism and skill under enemy fire while serving as (combat element) in the 7th Cavalry Regiment during combat in operation (fill in operation title here) near (some town, some map) on (Day Month Year). (In this section, describe how the trooper demonstrated heroism and skill in a single act during the operation in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences containing the explanation leading up to the event, the event itself, and the outcome of the event.) (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s heroism and skill reflect great credit upon themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Air MedalAwarded to any member of an aircrew (including pilots) for skillful or heroic actions over the entire operation where there was no one specific instance of heroism and the Trooper's contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. This award is the aviation equivalent to the Bronze Star without a valor device. Air Medal
Rank First Last For (skillful/heroic) actions over an entire operation while serving as (Air Crew specific combat element) in the 7th Cavalry Regiment during combat in operation (fill in operation title here) near (some town, some map) on (Day Month Year). (In this section, describe how the trooper demonstrated exceptional skill/heroism over the entire duration of the operation that was critical to the successful outcome in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences containing the explanation leading up to the events, the events themselves, and the outcome of the events.) (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s (skillful/heroic) actions reflect great credit upon themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Purple HeartAwarded for a single or multiple heroic actions while under enemy fire where the recipient was killed undertaking combat actions that resulted in the recipient’s sacrifice and death. Purple Heart
Rank First Last For a single or multiple heroic actions and skill under enemy fire resulting in their sacrifice and death while serving as (combat element) in the 7th Cavalry Regiment during combat in operation (fill in operation title here) near (some town, some map) on (Day Month Year). (In this section, describe how the trooper's one or more heroic actions while under fire that resulted in their sacrifice and death in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences containing the explanation leading up to the event, the event itself, and the outcome of the event.) (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s heroism and sacrifice reflect great credit upon themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Bronze Star MedalAwarded for skillful or heroic actions over the entire operation where there was no one specific instance of heroism and the Trooper's contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. Bronze Star Medal
Rank First Last For (skillful/heroic) actions over an entire operation while serving as (combat element) in the 7th Cavalry Regiment during combat in operation (fill in operation title here) near (some town, some map) on (Day Month Year). (In this section, describe how the trooper demonstrated exceptional skill/heroism over the entire duration of the operation that was critical to the successful outcome in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences containing the explanation leading up to the events, the events themselves, and the outcome of the events.) (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s (skillful/heroic) actions reflect great credit upon themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Bronze Star with ValorAwarded for a single act demonstrating extraordinary heroism and skill while under enemy fire and the Trooper’s contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award. Bronze Star Medal With Valor
Rank First Last For a single act demonstrating extraordinary heroism and skill under enemy fire while serving as (combat element) in the 7th Cavalry Regiment during combat in operation (fill in operation title here) near (some town, some map) on (Day Month Year). (In this section, describe how the trooper demonstrated extraordinary heroism in a single act during the operation in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences containing the explanation leading up to the event, the event itself, and the outcome of the event.) (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s skills and heroic actions reflect great credit upon themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Distinguished Flying CrossAwarded to pilots for a single act demonstrating extraordinary heroism and skill while under enemy fire and the pilot’s contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. This award is the aviation equivalent of the Bronze Star with Valor device. Air crew are not eligible for this award and pilots must have their flight wings. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award. Distinguished Flying Cross
Rank First Last For a single act demonstrating extraordinary heroism and skill under enemy fire while serving as a (combat element) pilot in the 7th Cavalry Regiment during combat in operation (fill in operation title here) near (some town, some map) on (Day Month Year). (In this section, describe how the trooper demonstrated extraordinary heroism in a single act duration of the operation in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences containing the explanation leading up to the event, the event itself, and the outcome of the event.) (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s skills and heroic actions reflect great credit upon themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Silver StarAwarded for actions demonstrating extraordinary heroism, skill, and leadership under fire while serving in an official leadership position which were critical to the successful outcome of the mission. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award. Silver Star
Rank First Last For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity under direct enemy fire while serving as (leadership element) in the 7th Cavalry Regiment during combat in operation (fill in operation title here) near (some town, some map) on (Day Month Year). (In this section, describe how the trooper demonstrated extraordinary heroism and skill/leadership under fire in the operation in a minimum of four, professionally written sentences containing the explanation leading up to the event, two sentences of the event itself, and the outcome of the event and mission.) (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s heroism, skill and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Distinguished Service CrossAwarded for actions, or a single act, demonstrating extraordinary heroism and skill under fire, which were unquestionably responsible for the successful outcome of the mission against a live enemy (non-Cav) force or internal player versus player matches. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award. Can also be awarded against a computer opponent for actions, or a single act, demonstrating extraordinary heroism, skill, and leadership under fire while serving as Officer-In-Command (OIC) of an official operation which were unquestionably responsible for the successful outcome of the mission. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award. Army Distinguished Service Cross
Rank First Last For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity under direct enemy fire while serving as (combat element) in the 7th Cavalry Regiment during combat in operation (fill in operation title here) near (some town, some map) on (Day Month Year). (In this section, describe how the trooper demonstrated extraordinary heroism and skill/leadership under fire in the operation in a minimum of five, professionally written sentences containing the explanation leading up to the event, two sentences of the event itself, two sentences about the outcome of the event.) (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s heroism, skill and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. |
Authority on Service Medal Recommendations
All medal recommendations must be produced by an individual who is of a higher billet and witnessed the event themselves. It is the responsibility of the leadership above the recommendation to make sure the recommendation is being adhered to, accounted for, and produced directly by the author of the medal. The recommended action must also have happened within the last 30 days unless waived by the COS or their designate.
Another member may post a medal recommendation on behalf of someone else who is of a lesser or equal billet under the following conditions:
- They credit the original author of the recommendation linking their MILPAC and declaring that they have signed off on the recommendation.
- The member posting the recommendation is to make sure to adjust the recommendation, if needed, to meet and maintain the current standards for that medal's criteria.
- The member posting the recommendation takes full responsibility for the recommendation regardless of the outcome or if the recommendation should turn out to be fraudulent.
Service Medal Citations |
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Service Medal CitationsOutstanding Volunteer Service MedalAwarded to members of the 7th Cavalry that provide outstanding service to a non-combat department to which they are not assigned. Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
Rank First Last For providing outstanding service to (non-combat department). (Full Rank First Name Last name) distinguished themselves by (In this section describe their contributions in a minimum of two, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s dedication to duty and commitment is in great credit to themselves, (non-combat department) and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Humanitarian Service MedalAwarded to any 7th Cavalry member that helped or aided a fellow member financially, physically, mentally, emotionally, or through games and/or computer parts. Also can be awarded for anyone initiating a Garry Owen for a member in need. Humanitarian Service Medal
Rank First Last For providing aid to a fellow trooper. (Full Rank First Name Last name) distinguished themselves by (In this section, describe how they provided help or aid in a minimum of two, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s dedication to duty and commitment is in great credit to themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Army Achievement MedalAwarded for contributions to any area of the Regiment, or being selected as Enlisted of the Quarter. Army Achievement Medal
Rank First Last For contributions in (affected area of the Cav). (Full Rank First Name Last name) distinguished themselves by (In this section describe their contributions in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s dedication to duty and commitment is in great credit to themselves, (affected area of the Cav) and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Joint Service Achievement MedalAwarded for attending multiple section practices to which they are not assigned while still consistently attending their own. Is recommended by the benefitted combat line unit commander. Joint Service Achievement Medal
Rank First Last For contributions to (unit). (Full Rank First Name Last Name) distinguished themselves by (In this section describe their SP attendance/contributions in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)’s dedication to duty and commitment to the Regiment is in great credit to themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Army Commendation MedalAwarded for distinguished contributions to any area of the Regiment, or being selected Enlisted or NCO of the Quarter. Army Commendation Medal
Rank First Last For distinguished contributions to (unit). (Full Rank First Name Last Name) distinguished themselves by (In this section describe their distinguished contributions in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)’s dedication to duty and commitment to the Regiment is in great credit to themselves, (unit) and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Joint Service Commendation MedalAwarded to Troopers that provide significant contributions to a combat line unit to which they are not assigned, outside of section practice attendance. Is recommended by the benefitted combat line unit commander. Joint Service Commendation Medal
Rank First Last For (Actions/contributions) to (company) as a member of (company). (Full Rank First Name Last Name) (distinguished/contributed) themselves by (In this section describe how the individual demonstrated their actions/contributions in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s dedication to duty and (actions/contributions) are great credit to themselves and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Meritorious Service MedalAwarded to any member for exceptional service or contributions that significantly impact the health and morale of the unit in a positive manner, or being selected as Enlisted, NCO, or Officer of the Quarter. Can only be awarded once per person, in any six-month period. The six-month limit does not apply to being awarded "Of the Quarter" medals. Meritorious Service Medal
Rank First Last For (exceptionally meritorious service/contributions) to (unit). (Full Rank First Name Last Name) (distinguished/contributed) themselves by (In this section describe how the individual demonstrated their meritorious service/contributions in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s dedication to duty and (exceptionally meritorious service/contributions) are in great credit to themself and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment.
Defense Meritorious Service MedalAwarded for a single, significant and distinguished meritorious contribution to any area of the Regiment. Can only be awarded once per person, in any six-month period. Defense Meritorious Service Medal
Rank First Last For a single, significant, and distinguished contribution to (unit). (Full Rank First Name Last Name) distinguished themselves by (In this section describe how the individual demonstrated their single, significant, and distinguished contribution in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s distinguished contribution is in great credit to themselves, the (unit), and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Soldier’s MedalAwarded for multiple, significant and distinguished meritorious contributions to any area of the Regiment requiring significant time investment. Can only be awarded once per person, in any six-month period. Soldier’s Medal
Rank First Last For (multiple, significant and distinguished meritorious service/contributions) to (unit). (Full Rank First Name Last Name) (distinguished/contributed) themselves by (In this section describe how the individual demonstrated their multiple meritorious service/contributions in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s dedication to duty and (exceptionally meritorious service/contributions) are in great credit to themself, the (unit), and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Legion of MeritAwarded to members for exceptional service in a secondary billet over the course of one year, or being selected as Departmental Clerk of the Year. Can only be awarded once per person, per year. Cannot be awarded to secondary Lead billets or higher. Legion of Merit
Rank First Last For exceptional service in a secondary billet while serving as (role and secondary billet) during (Month Year to Month Year). (Full Rank First Name Last name) distinguished themselves by (In this section describe how the individual demonstrated their exceptional service in a minimum of three, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s dedication to duty and commitment to their department is in great credit to themselves, the (secondary billet) and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Defense Superior Service MedalAwarded to officers and non-commissioned officers for exceptionally meritorious leadership of a secondary billet over the course of one year, or being selected as Departmental Staff of the Year.. Applies to sub-department Leads or higher only. Can also be awarded for meritorious service to the Regiment in leadership in operations over a year. Can only be awarded once per person, per year. Defense Superior Service Medal
Rank First Last For exceptionally meritorious leadership of (a secondary billet/operations) while serving as (role and secondary billet) during (Month Year to Month Year). (Full Rank First Name Last Name) distinguished themselves by (In this section describe how the individual demonstrated their exceptionally meritorious leadership in a minimum of four, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s exceptionally meritorious leadership is in great credit to themselves, the (secondary billet/Operations AO), and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Army Distinguished Service MedalAwarded for distinguished service in a primary non-leadership billet, or being selected as Battalion or Regimental Enlisted of the Year. Can only be awarded once per person, per year. Cannot be awarded to primary leadership billets. Army Distinguished Service Medal
Rank First Last For distinguished service in a primary billet while serving as (role and element) during (Month Year to Month Year). (Full Rank First Name Last Name) distinguished themselves by (In this section describe how the individual demonstrated their distinguished service in a minimum of four, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s distinguished service and commitment is a great credit to themselves, (element), and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Defense Distinguished Service MedalAwarded to officers and non-commissioned officers for exceptionally meritorious leadership of a primary billet over the course of one year, or being selected as Battalion or Regimental Non-Commissioned Officer or Officer of the Year. Defense Distinguished Service Medal
Rank First Last For exceptionally meritorious leadership of a primary billet while serving as (role and element) during (Month Year to Month Year). (Full Rank First Name Last Name) distinguished themselves by (In this section describe how the individual demonstrated their distinguished service in a minimum of four, professionally written sentences). (Full Rank First Name Last Name)'s exemplary leadership demonstrates their commitment to their troopers and reflects great credit upon themselves, (element), and the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. |
Authority on Unit Award Recommendations
For Unit Award recommendations, please adhere to the authority for combat and service medal recommendations depending on if the Unit Award is a combat or service award, or any additional criteria for the Unit Award.
Unit Award Citations |
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Unit Award CitationsArmy Valorous Unit AwardAwarded to squad-sized units and up that display outstanding and exceptional skill as a whole during combat operations and the unit’s contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. Must have won all official match(es) played or achieved total mission success (PVE). Must be an official organized event. This award is a Silver Star equivalent and is to be used for applicable scenarios with 4 or more people. Army Valorous Unit Award
Rank First Last
Joint Meritorious Unit AwardAwarded to section-level units and higher or sub-departments and higher for excellent meritorious performance of their duties and multiple, significant and distinguished meritorious contributions that positively affected multiple areas of the Regiment. Must be recommended by Battalion Staff or Departmental HQ or higher. This award is a Soldier’s Medal equivalent. Joint Meritorious Unit Award
Rank First Last
Meritorious Unit CommendationAwarded to squad-sized units and up that display outstanding and exceptional skill as a whole during combat operations and competitions. Must have won all official match(es) played in the competition, or achieved total mission success (PVE). Must be an official organized event. Each Battalion may award one per month.
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Rank First Last
Superior Unit AwardAwarded to section-level units and higher or sub-departments and higher for superior performance of their duties. Each Battalion/Department may award one per 6 months.
Superior Unit Award
Rank First Last
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The Approval Process
- Once a medal recommendation has been received it should be reviewed by S1 to insure format correctness and eligibility in regards to statutory limitations and Non-Favorable Actions (NFA).
- Once S1 determines an award meets eligibility requirements, they will set the status of the medal recommendation's format as approved.
- The medal recommendation will then be reviewed by an approval authority. The approval authority has 7 days to either approve or deny the recommendation.
Lifetime Achievement Medals
The Brigadier General Krazee Lifetime Achievement Medal and CSM Ronnie "Coldblud" Bussey Lifetime Achievement Medal are awarded outside the normal process for medals. A member can only ever receive one of these medals as they signify a "Lifetime" of achievement.
They are awarded solely at the discretion of the Regimental Commanding Officer.
Documentation of Awards and Decorations
- If a recommendation is denied, appeal may be made in writing to the Regimental Commanding Officer for final disposition.
- Once a recommendation is approved it is to be processed according to established S1 processes and procedures.
The General Staff reserves the right to make exceptions to this policy when deemed in the best interest of the 7th Cavalry Regiment as a whole. Such an exception requires the unanimous decision of the General Staff.
Medal Recommendation Submission Titles
All medal recommendation posts will be made with a standard naming convention. The general format shall be "Medal Recommendation - Department/Unit/Operation/Statutory - Medal Name (Abbreviated) - RNK.Last.F
Type of Award | Format |
Department | Medal Recommendation - S1 - AFSM - CPL.Doe.J |
Unit/Sub-Unit | Medal Recommendation - B/1-7 - AAM - CPL.Doe.J |
Operation | Medal Recommendation - Operation Hammer - ARCOM - CPL.Doe.J |
Statutory | Medal Recommendation - Statutory - CMB - CPL.Doe.J |
Regimental Approval Authority
While the Regimental Chief of Staff is charged with overseeing the execution and implementation of our medal policies, the General Staff all serve as approval authorities for any medal recommendation, along with their designates. The General Staff upon unanimous approval, maintains the right to award any medal to any person for any reason (with exception of the Lifetime Achievement Medals to be solely awarded by the Regimental Commanding Officer).
Chapter 4: Purpose of Awards and Decorations
Awards and decorations are more commonly referred to as medals and ribbons. They are one of the ways we recognize service and personal accomplishment while a member of the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment. Together with other badges of rank and insignia in the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment, they are an outward display highlighting the member's achievements and contributions throughout their career.
Visual identification is something we naturally rely on, but largely take for granted. In a virtual community, this basic human ability is missing by default. We address this through forum avatars, forum signatures, and MILPACS service jackets to display each member's rank, billet, awards, and qualifications. It helps to fill the void of intuitive recognition that would otherwise be present in face to face interactions.
Medal Box Images (S1 Personnel Use Only)
Chapter 5: The 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment Military Challenge Coin

The 7th Cavalry Regiment has an official challenge coin, often referred to unofficially as the "cav coin" or "cavalry challenge coin". Because this is a real, physical coin awarded to members, it has several special criteria and characteristics. The coin was first commissioned in 2018 by Command Sergeant Major (Retired) Jon Argus
Criteria For Awarding
- The administrators of the coin disbursement will be the General Staff. The coins will be disbursed as follows:
- One coin per person, ever.
They are awarded for:
- To any member with 3 years cumulative service or more; or
- As spot awards for outstanding contributions to the Cav. Recommended by Chain of Command or Department OIC; or
- As competition rewards; or
- For special requests from the General Staff for one-off situations
The coin is considered a special item, intended to provide a thank-you to members who have made a significant impact or contribution to the health and welfare of the Regiment. They will not be devalued by being distributed en-masse.
Anyone who re-enlists must serve an additional six months before being eligible to be awarded the coin. Anyone who wishes to be awarded the coin must submit their address to the Regimental Commanding Officer so that it can be mailed to them.
Chapter 6: Medals Awarded for Real Life Military Service
Currently, several medals and awards are authorized for members who have served the armed forces of their country in real life.
National Defense Service Medal
- Have served or are serving in their nations armed forces (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force)
- Be able to provide proof of service to the Regimental Commanding Officer
Verification methods include:
- A US Veteran can provide a copy of their DD214. (please remove SSN and Address or black it out)
- A US Veteran or Active Duty member can use the following website to prove their service: [1]
- Other nationalities may provide whatever documentation that will positively identify their service.
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
- Provide proof of service during the campaign, in the form of the DD-214 listing deployments or equivalent form if non-US service.
Iraq Campaign Medal
- Provide proof of service during the campaign, in the form of the DD-214 listing deployments or equivalent form if non-US service.
Global War on Terrorism Medal
- Provide proof of service during the campaign, in the form of the DD-214 listing deployments or equivalent form if non-US service.
Military Service Medals - Award Criteria and Verification Procedure
This policy will provide a clear understanding on how to obtain the Military Service Medal and/or the Military Campaign Medals.
Process
If you are serving or have served in your country's armed forces and believe you are eligible for one or more of the following medals, please send a copy of your DD-214 (or equivalent discharge/service record) via the Regiment's ticket system [2]. Click "Create Ticket" and select "Military Service Awards." You only have to submit your documents once via a single ticket. Please be sure to black out any sensitive information such as Social Security Numbers and any other non-pertinent information. Any documentation you provide to us will not be kept, or stored on any 7th Cavalry system.
Members may also use the Service members Civil Relief Act Website for verification if they do not have a DD-214 to submit.
For non-US personnel, please submit equivalent documentation needed for verification.
Criteria for Awards
Below is the criteria for the range of medals awarded for real life service to their respective nation's military.
Exceptions for Military Service Medals
The Regimental Commanding Officer reserves the right to make exceptions to this policy when deemed in the best interest of the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment.
Chapter 7: Award Categories
Category | Description |
Discontinued | Previously awarded and discontinued. Still appears on uniforms. |
Removed | Previously awarded and discontinued. Removed from uniforms. |
Service | Awarded for service or contributions to the Regiment. |
Operations | Awarded for actions in game-play/operations. |
Statutory | Awarded for completion of courses, time in service or meeting certain criteria, i.e. participating in # operations. |
Chapter 8: Individual Medals and Ribbons
- General Staff, at their discretion, may award any medal upon this list.
Service Medals and Ribbons
INDIVIDUAL SERVICE MEDALS AND RIBBONS OF THE 7TH CAVALRY REGIMENT
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Medal/Ribbon | Name | Category | Description | Approval Authority |
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Medal of Honor | Not Awarded | The highest honor that can be awarded to a member of the United States armed forces. It is represented here out of respect for the award, its recipients, and its place in military history. | N/A, Not Awarded |
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Brigadier General Krazee Lifetime Achievement Medal | Service | By order of the Regimental Commanding Officer only, is awarded for overall career achievements within the 7th Cavalry. This includes service to the unit in and out of combat roles. This award is exclusive to the Officer ranks, and is awarded in honor of Brigadier General Krazee. | Regimental Commanding Officer |
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CSM Ronnie "Coldblud" Bussey Lifetime Achievement Medal | Service | By order of the Regimental Commanding Officer only, is awarded for overall career achievements within the 7th Cavalry. This includes service to the unit in and out of combat roles. This award is exclusive to the NCO ranks, and is awarded in honor of Command Sergeant Major Ronnie "Coldblud" Bussey. | Regimental Commanding Officer |
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Defense Distinguished Service Medal | Service | Awarded to officers and non-commissioned officers for exceptionally meritorious leadership of a primary billet over the course of one year, or being selected as Battalion or Regimental Non-Commissioned Officer or Officer of the Year. | General Staff
Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Army Distinguished Service Medal | Service | Awarded for distinguished service in a primary non-leadership billet, or being selected as Battalion or Regimental Enlisted of the Year. Can only be awarded once per person, per year. Cannot be awarded to primary leadership billets. | General Staff
Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Defense Superior Service Medal | Service | Awarded to officers and non-commissioned officers for exceptionally meritorious leadership of a secondary billet over the course of one year, or being selected as Departmental Staff of the Year.. Applies to sub-department Leads or higher only. Can also be awarded for meritorious service to the Regiment in leadership in operations over a year. Can only be awarded once per person, per year. | General Staff
Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Legion of Merit | Service | Awarded to members for exceptional service in a secondary billet over the course of one year, or being selected as Departmental Clerk of the Year. Can only be awarded once per person, per year. Cannot be awarded to secondary Lead billets or higher. | General Staff
Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Soldier's Medal | Service | Awarded for multiple, significant and distinguished meritorious contributions to any area of the Regiment requiring significant time investment. Can only be awarded once per person, in any six-month period. | General Staff
Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Defense Meritorious Service Medal | Service | Awarded for a single, significant and distinguished meritorious contribution to any area of the Regiment. Can only be awarded once per person, in any six-month period. | General Staff
Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Meritorious Service Medal | Service | Awarded to any member for exceptional service or contributions that significantly impact the health and morale of the unit in a positive manner, or being selected as Enlisted, NCO, or Officer of the Quarter. Can only be awarded once per person, in any six-month period. The six-month limit does not apply to being awarded "Of the Quarter" medals. | General Staff
Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Joint Service Commendation Medal | Service | Awarded to Troopers that provide significant contributions to a combat line unit to which they are not assigned, outside of section practice attendance. Is recommended by the benefited combat line unit commander. | General Staff
Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Army Commendation Medal | Service | Awarded for distinguished contributions to any area of the Regiment, or being selected Enlisted or NCO of the Quarter. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff S1 HQ |
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Joint Service Achievement Medal | Service | Awarded for attending multiple section practices to which they are not assigned while still consistently attending their own. Is recommended by the benefited combat line unit commander. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff S1 HQ |
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Army Achievement Medal | Service | Awarded for contributions to any area of the Regiment, or being selected as Enlisted of the Quarter. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff S1 HQ |
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Humanitarian Service Medal | Service | Awarded to any 7th Cavalry member that helped or aided a fellow member financially, physically, mentally, emotionally, or through games and/or computer parts. Also can be awarded for anyone initiating a Garry Owen for a member in need. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff S1 HQ |
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Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal | Service | Awarded to members of the 7th Cavalry that provide outstanding service to a non-combat department to which they are not assigned. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff S1 HQ |
Operation Medals and Ribbons
INDIVIDUAL OPERATION MEDALS AND RIBBONS OF THE 7TH CAVALRY REGIMENT | ||||
Medal/Ribbon | Name | Category | Description | Approval Authority |
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Army Distinguished Service Cross | Operations | Awarded for actions, or a single act, demonstrating extraordinary heroism and skill under fire, which were unquestionably responsible for the successful outcome of the mission against a live enemy (non-Cav) force or internal player versus player matches. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award.
Can also be awarded against a computer opponent for actions, or a single act, demonstrating extraordinary heroism, skill, and leadership under fire while serving as Officer-In-Command (OIC) of an official operation which were unquestionably responsible for the successful outcome of the mission. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award. |
General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Silver Star | Operations | Awarded for actions demonstrating extraordinary heroism, skill, and leadership under fire while serving in an official leadership position which were critical to the successful outcome of the mission. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Distinguished Flying Cross | Operations | Awarded to pilots for a single act demonstrating extraordinary heroism and skill while under enemy fire and the pilot’s contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. This award is the aviation equivalent of the Bronze Star with Valor device. Air crew are not eligible for this award and pilots must have their flight wings. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Bronze Star with Valor | Operations | Awarded for a single act demonstrating extraordinary heroism and skill while under enemy fire and the Trooper’s contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. The recipient must have survived to be eligible to receive this award. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff |
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Bronze Star Medal | Operations | Awarded for skillful or heroic actions over the entire operation where there was no one specific instance of heroism and the Trooper's contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff |
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Purple Heart | Operations | Awarded for a single or multiple heroic actions while under enemy fire where the recipient was killed undertaking combat actions that resulted in the recipient’s sacrifice and death. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff |
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Air Medal | Operations | Awarded to any member of an aircrew (including pilots) for skillful or heroic actions over the entire operation where there was no one specific instance of heroism and the Trooper's contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. This award is the aviation equivalent to the Bronze Star without a valor device. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff |
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Army Commendation Medal With Valor | Operations | Awarded for a single act of heroism or skill under fire. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff S1 HQ |
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Army Commendation Medal | Operations | Awarded for skillful or heroic actions over an entire operation where there was no one specific instance of heroism or skill. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff S1 HQ |
Statutory Medals and Ribbons
Chapter 9: Unit Awards
UNIT CITATIONS OF THE 7TH CAVALRY REGIMENT | ||||
Ribbon/Award | Name | Category | Description | Approval Authority |
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Presidential Unit Citation | Statutory | Awarded to the 7th Cavalry Regiment for distinguished and heroic actions during combat operations as a Unit against hostile forces. All troopers receive this award upon graduating from the Recruit Training Command. | General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff S1 HQ
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Army Valorous Unit Award | Operations | Awarded to squad-sized units and up that display outstanding and exceptional skill as a whole during combat operations and the unit’s contribution was critical to the successful outcome of the operation. Must have won all official match(es) played or achieved total mission success (PVE). Must be an official organized event.
|
General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Joint Meritorious Unit Award | Service | Awarded to section-level units and higher or sub-departments and higher for excellent meritorious performance of their duties and multiple, significant and distinguished meritorious contributions that positively affected multiple areas of the Regiment. Must be recommended by Battalion Staff or Departmental HQ or higher.
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General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff |
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Meritorious Unit Commendation | Operations | Awarded to squad-sized units and up that display outstanding and exceptional skill as a whole during combat operations and competitions. Must have won all official match(es) played in the competition, or achieved total mission success (PVE). Must be an official organized event.
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General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff |
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Superior Unit Award | Service | Awarded to section-level units and higher or sub-departments and higher for superior performance of their duties.
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General Staff Aide to the Chief of Staff Battalion Staff Departmental HQ |
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Black Ops Unit Citation | Service | Awarded by General Staff to active duty members who have attended a real life meet-up with at least one other active duty member. General Staff may request evidence of the meetup as needed for verification.
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General Staff |
Chapter 10: Special Skill Group 1 Awards
COMBAT INFANTRY BADGES | |||
Ribbon/Award | Name | Category | Description |
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Combat Infantry Badge 4 | Statutory | Awarded for participation in combat operations after 20 operations in any area of operation. |
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Combat Infantry Badge 3 | Statutory | Awarded for participation in combat operations after 15 operations in any area of operation. |
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Combat Infantry Badge 2 | Statutory | Awarded for participation in combat operations after 10 operations in any area of operation. |
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Combat Infantry Badge | Statutory | Awarded for participation in combat operations after 5 operations in any area of operation. |
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Expert Infantry Badge | Statutory | Awarded for participation in combat operations after 1 operation in any area of operation. |
Chapter 11: Special Skill Group 2 Awards
MEDICAL QUALIFICATION BADGES | |||||||
Ribbon/Award | Name | Category | Description | ||||
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Combat Medical Badge | Statutory | Awarded for sustained actions in combat while assigned as a combat medic. Must have Expert Field Medical Badge to qualify.
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Expert Field Medical Badge | Statutory | Awarded for completion of the game's Combat Medic Course. |
Chapter 12: Special Skill Group 3 Awards
Chapter 13: Special Skill Group 4 Awards
Chapter 14: Other Awards
Chapter 15: Discontinued Awards
Chapter 16: Order of Precedence
Below is the order of precedence of all Individual Medals & Ribbons.
Ribbon/Award | Name |
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Medal of Honor |
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Brigadier General Krazee Lifetime Achievement Medal |
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CSM Ronnie "Coldblud" Bussey Lifetime Achievement Medal |
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Army Distinguished Service Cross |
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Defense Distinguished Service Medal |
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Army Distinguished Service Medal |
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Silver Star |
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Defense Superior Service Medal |
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Legion of Merit |
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Distinguished Flying Cross |
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Soldier's Medal |
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Bronze Star with Valor |
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Bronze Star Medal |
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Purple Heart |
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Defense Meritorious Service Medal |
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Meritorious Service Medal |
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Air Medal |
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Joint Service Commendation Medal |
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Army Commendation Medal With Valor |
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Army Commendation Medal |
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Joint Service Achievement Medal |
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Army Achievement Medal |
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Prisoner of War Medal |
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Army Good Conduct Medal 3rd Gold Knot |
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Army Good Conduct Medal 2nd Gold Knot |
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Army Good Conduct Medal 1st Gold Knot |
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Army Good Conduct Medal 3rd Silver Knot |
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Army Good Conduct Medal 2nd Silver Knot |
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Army Good Conduct Medal 1st Silver Knot |
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Army Good Conduct Medal 3rd Bronze Knot |
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Army Good Conduct Medal 2nd Bronze Knot |
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Army Good Conduct Medal 1st Bronze Knot |
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Army Good Conduct Medal First Award |
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Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal |
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Afghanistan Campaign Medal |
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Iraq Campaign Medal |
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Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal |
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National Defense Service Medal |
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Armed Forces Service Medal |
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Humanitarian Service Medal |
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Donation Ribbon |
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7th Cavalry Server Upgrade Award |
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StackUp Donation Medal w/Gold Knot |
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StackUp Donation Medal w/Silver Knot |
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StackUp Donation Medal w/Bronze Knot |
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StackUp Donation Medal |
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Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal |
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NCO Professional Development Ribbon |
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Honor Graduate Ribbon |
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Army Service Ribbon |
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United Nations Service Medal |
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Overseas Service Ribbon |
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DCS Service Ribbon |
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Squad Service Ribbon |
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World War II Service Ribbon |
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Hell Let Loose Service Ribbon |
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Hell Let Loose Console Service Ribbon |
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Recruiting Service Ribbon |
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D-Day Commemorative Medal |
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Sniper Medal |
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Basic Assault Course Ribbon |
Chapter 17: "Of the Quarter" Awards
Each Battalion will reward the performance of enlisted, NCO's, and officers with an "of the Quarter" award system based on merit and service within the past quarter. At the end of every quarter, the selection for service awards are proposed and approved by the appropriate authorities which are detailed below.
At each level, staff may choose appropriate members to be the recipient of an award. A higher level of staff does not need to choose from the pool of already selected recipients. All those within the Battalion are eligible at the discretion of the appropriate level of staff selecting them. An enlisted member is defined as any member at the ranks of PVT (E-2) to SPC (E-4), regardless of billet. A non-commissioned officer (NCO) is defined as any member over the rank of CPL (E-4)/WO1 (W-1) to SGM (E-9)/CW5 (W-5), regardless of billet. An officer is defined as any member over the rank of 2LT (O-1).
Platoon Level
Platoon Staff may select one enlisted to be awarded from within their platoon. Their selection must be passed on to Company Staff.
Company Level
Company Staff may select one enlisted and one NCO to be awarded. Both their selection and platoons' selection must be passed on to Battalion Staff.
Battalion Level
Battalion Staff may select one enlisted, NCO, and officer to be awarded. Battalion Staff is responsible for the approval and posting of ALL awards within the Battalion before the end of the first week of the new quarter.
Raising Awards
If they so desire, Company or Battalion Staff may choose an already selected recipient. By doing this they elevate the award that is being given to the recipient to the level of staff awarding them.
Procedure
All award proposals should be submitted to Battalion Staff via forum PM within the final week of the quarter. By the end of the first week in the new quarter, all awards must be approved and posted by Battalion Staff in one medal package as a medal recommendation ticket. Awards at the end of the year may have a different deadline due to Furlough.
"Of the Quarter" Awards
Level | Award |
Platoon | Army Achievement Medal |
Company | Army Commendation Medal |
Battalion | Meritorious Service Medal |
Chapter 18: "Of the Year" Awards
Each Battalion will reward the performance of an enlisted, NCO, and officer with an "Of the Year" award system based on merit and service within the past year. General Staff will do the same at the Regimental level for combat line billets. Secondary and Support Departments will reward the performance of a clerk (or equivalent) and a leadership staff member (Leads and higher) also based on merit and service within the past year. At the end of every year, the selection for service awards are proposed and approved by the appropriate authorities which are detailed below. At each level, staff may choose members to be the recipient of an award within the scope of their command and that are eligible. If applicable, a higher level of staff does not need to choose from the pool of already selected recipients.
Limitations of Service
Any member being recommended for an “of the Year” award must have served a minimum of 6 months consecutive service in that Combat Line Unit or Department to be eligible. If a member being recommended for an "of the Year" award does not meet the 6 month minimum, exceptions on service time can be recommended by the appropriate Battalion Staff or Departmental HQ and brought to the Regimental Chief of Staff or their designates for review and waived at their discretion.
Battalion Level
Battalion Staff may select one enlisted, NCO, and officer within the scope of their command, with ultimate decision making authority with the Battalion Commanding Officer. An enlisted member is defined as any member at the ranks of PVT (E-2) to SPC (E-4), regardless of billet. A non-commissioned officer (NCO) is defined as any member at the rank of CPL (E-4)/WO1 (W-1) to SGM (E-9)/CW5 (W-5), regardless of billet. An officer is defined as any member over the rank of 2LT (O-1). Battalion Staff are responsible for posting their three “of the Year” recommendations two weeks before the start of Furlough.
Departmental Level
Support and Secondary Department HQ’s (1IC & 2IC) may select one clerk level (or equivalent) and one staff level (Leads or higher) to be awarded within the scope of their command, with ultimate decision making authority with the Departmental 1IC. Departmental HQ or higher is responsible for posting their two “of the Year” recommendations two weeks before the start of Furlough.
Regimental Level
General Staff may select one enlisted, NCO, and officer to be awarded from any primary billet in the Regiment. General Staff is responsible for the approval and posting of these medals. If they so desire, General Staff may choose an already selected recipient. By doing this they elevate the award to the Regimental level. If this is done the appropriate lower level staff can backfill the previous award with a new recipient.
Procedure
Two weeks prior to Furlough, all awards must be posted by the appropriate Battalion Staff and Departmental HQ in one medal package as a medal recommendation ticket for approval by the appropriate Regimental authority. Failure to meet this deadline may result in appropriate disciplinary action. At their discretion, Battalion Staff and Departmental HQ staff may award additional medals as they see fit, based on merit and current medal criteria in separate medal recommendation posts. The intent of this is to ensure separation for “of the Year” recipients and distinguish them from all other medal recommendations.
Template
Please submit all "of the Year" medal recommendations by replacing the first sentence of the appropriate medal's template with, "For being awarded UNIT NAME/DEPARTMENT's ENLISTED/NCO/OFFICER/CLERK/STAFF of the Year in YEAR." Example: For being awarded 2-7 Battalion's Officer of the Year in 2024.
"Of the Year" Battalion Awards
Level | Award |
Battalion (Enlisted) | Army Distinguished Service Medal |
Battalion (Officer/NCO) | Defense Distinguished Service Medal |
“Of the Year” Departmental Awards
Level | Award |
Clerk (or equivalent) | Legion of Merit |
Staff (Leads and above) | Defense Superior Service Medal |
"Of the Year" Regimental Awards
Level | Award |
Regiment (Enlisted) | Army Distinguished Service Medal |
Regiment (Officer/NCO) | Defense Distinguished Service Medal |