The Combat Action Ribbon (CAR) is a military award in the United States Armed Forces that recognizes individuals who have actively engaged in combat operations. It is a significant recognition for service members who have demonstrated bravery and dedication in the face of danger. In this blog post, we will delve into the Combat Action Ribbon database, exploring its history, eligibility criteria, and the process of obtaining this prestigious award.
History of the Combat Action Ribbon
The Combat Action Ribbon was established on August 11, 1960, by the United States Navy. It was initially created to recognize the efforts of Navy and Marine Corps personnel who had participated in combat operations during the Vietnam War. Over time, the award's scope expanded to include all branches of the military, acknowledging the sacrifices and contributions of service members in various conflicts.
The CAR's design features a blue and gold ribbon, symbolizing the Navy's traditional colors. The ribbon's center stripe is wider, representing the intensity of combat, while the narrower stripes on either side signify the support and assistance provided by fellow service members.
Eligibility Criteria
The Combat Action Ribbon is awarded to individuals who have actively engaged in combat against an enemy force. Here are the key eligibility criteria:
- Active Participation: Service members must have directly participated in combat operations, either on the ground, in the air, or at sea. This includes actions such as engaging in firefights, conducting combat patrols, or being under enemy fire.
- Hostile Action: The combat engagement must involve hostile action, where the enemy initiates or responds with force. It is not awarded for mere presence in a combat zone or for support roles that do not involve direct combat.
- Individual Achievement: The CAR is an individual award, meaning each service member must meet the eligibility criteria independently. It is not automatically awarded to all members of a unit involved in combat.
Obtaining the Combat Action Ribbon
The process of obtaining the Combat Action Ribbon varies slightly across different branches of the military. However, the general steps are as follows:
Step 1: Combat Engagement
Service members must actively participate in combat operations, as defined by the eligibility criteria. This can occur during ground combat, air combat, or naval engagements.
Step 2: Nomination or Recommendation
After the combat engagement, a service member's immediate supervisor or commanding officer can nominate or recommend them for the Combat Action Ribbon. This recommendation is based on their direct observation of the service member's actions and their contribution to the combat operation.
Step 3: Review and Approval
The nomination or recommendation is then reviewed by higher-ranking officers or a review board. They assess the service member's actions, the nature of the combat engagement, and the overall impact of their participation. If the review board determines that the service member meets the eligibility criteria, the award is approved.
Step 4: Award Presentation
Once approved, the Combat Action Ribbon is presented to the service member in a formal ceremony. The award is often accompanied by a citation, which provides a detailed account of the service member's actions and the reasons for their recognition.
Combat Action Ribbon Database
The Combat Action Ribbon database serves as a comprehensive record of all individuals who have received this prestigious award. It is maintained by the respective branches of the military and contains valuable information about each recipient.
The database typically includes the following details:
- Name and Service Number: The full name and unique service number of the recipient.
- Branch of Service: The branch of the military (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard) in which the recipient served.
- Date of Award: The date on which the Combat Action Ribbon was presented to the recipient.
- Citation: A detailed description of the combat engagement and the service member's actions that led to the award.
- Additional Information: Depending on the branch, the database may include further details such as the recipient's rank, unit, and any other relevant information.
The Combat Action Ribbon database is an essential resource for researchers, historians, and veterans alike. It provides valuable insights into the sacrifices and achievements of service members who have actively participated in combat operations. It serves as a testament to their bravery, dedication, and service to their country.
Table: Combat Action Ribbon Statistics
| Branch of Service | Total Awards | Year with Most Awards |
|---|---|---|
| Army | 15,478 | 2007 |
| Navy | 7,215 | 1968 |
| Marine Corps | 5,872 | 1968 |
| Air Force | 3,125 | 2003 |
| Coast Guard | 58 | 2003 |
The table above provides a glimpse into the distribution of Combat Action Ribbon awards across different branches of the military. It showcases the years with the highest number of awards, highlighting the intensity of combat operations during those periods.
Notes
🎖 Note: The Combat Action Ribbon is a highly respected award, and its criteria are strictly enforced to ensure its integrity. Each branch of the military has its own regulations and guidelines for awarding the CAR, so it is essential to consult the relevant sources for detailed information.
🌟 Note: The Combat Action Ribbon database is an evolving record, as new awards are granted and additional information becomes available. It is a valuable resource for understanding the combat experiences of service members and honoring their service.
Conclusion
The Combat Action Ribbon is a testament to the bravery and dedication of service members who have faced the challenges of combat. It serves as a reminder of their sacrifices and the importance of recognizing their contributions. By exploring the history, eligibility criteria, and database of the Combat Action Ribbon, we gain a deeper understanding of the significance of this award and the individuals who have earned it.
FAQ
Can civilians receive the Combat Action Ribbon?
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No, the Combat Action Ribbon is exclusively awarded to military service members who have actively participated in combat operations.
Is the Combat Action Ribbon retroactive?
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Yes, the CAR can be awarded retroactively for past combat engagements. Service members who meet the eligibility criteria for previous conflicts may still be considered for the award.
Are there different levels or tiers of the Combat Action Ribbon?
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No, the Combat Action Ribbon is a single-level award. There are no higher or lower tiers based on the intensity or duration of combat engagement.
Can the Combat Action Ribbon be revoked or taken away?
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In rare cases, the Combat Action Ribbon can be revoked if it is determined that the award was given in error or if the recipient’s actions do not align with the eligibility criteria. However, such instances are carefully reviewed and handled by the respective military branches.
