Originally Posted by
JamesNoBrakes
I would say it depends on how exceptional the situation is. Aircraft with human pilots are also becoming safer and darn near immune to most threats, F-22, JSF. Do medals exist only for bravery, or also for exceptional performance and intelligence? These are good questions to ask IMO. I just don't think it's so cut and dry.
It's combat EVER going to be like it was back in WWI?
You couldn't be more wrong.
Combat medals yes- bravery in action. What REAL BSM and SSM and above are for and they actions that rate them.
Have you actually read the actions that merit such awards JNB or are you going of opinion? While you were in the military did you sit on actual awards boards or even write recommendation for such awards?
If you haven't understood that others are saying that it is fine that these awards exist and are being given for exceptional performance of duties is one thing - but to rank them in order above a true combat award (one that is earned while putting one's life in danger) is insulting; but what else should be expected? The awards system is hay-wire and out-of-control.
Btw - you didn't answer the yes or no question posed.
What type of combat is that JNB - rushing machine gun nests in a frontal assault? I hope not!
Maneuver Warfare is pretty much the idea that has caught on in modern warfare.