Oops, I started a similar thread. The mods will delete it or do as they wish.

My guess--it'll be given to a lot of LTC's whose commanders think they don't have a way of giving their guys recognition for doing a wartime job. But above a BSM?

 

When the Navy closed our base, we all got a going away present. Everyone E7 and above got a NCM, E4 to E6 got a NAM, and letters for E3 and below.

 

Or maybe be instrumental in taking out an enemy force that is pinning down our ground forces, or able to coordinate with them in a way that is above and beyond what they usually do. Maybe it's recognizing someone in trouble that can't communicate, etc...

 

I'll give 'em all medals as long as they're not mentioned in this:

http://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/docs/cb/cb_397.pdf .

 

Wow, tell us how you really feel?

What if they are instrumental in detecting and eliminating enemy that is pinning down our ground troops, against regular doctrine and procedure?

What if they recognize someone on the ground who is in distress and unable to communicate?

What if they...

This could go on and on. Some of you seem to hate the UAS operators because they are the "new kid" on the block. Face it, this is the future of warfare, and it will mean less people in harms way, but it doesn't mean the human element isn't important. It could be critical, and I'm sure there will be situations in the future where it is.

 

You are missing the point.
JNB - yes or no - this award should rate higher than awards for actually BEING in the line of fire (higher than a BSM w combat 'V')?

 

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?

 

Last time I checked way more F-22 guys have bought it than drone jockeys.
Yes, drones are wonderful, but the drivers are exposed to zero risk in normal ops or combat.

Zero risk now rates a trophy. I think everyone should get a chest full of medals and a big sash to go with them even if they only drive a typewriter.
Everyone could then feel much better and have high self-esteem.
Instant improvement without really meaning anything so as not to offend anyone.

 

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.

 

Excellent point... realize that there are some platforms (HH-60G's,AH-64's for example) that still get shot up on a daily basis. Not all are immune to threats but I understand your point.

However, there are already awards in place i.e. MSM's, Commendation & Achievement Medals. I see no need to establish a new award just for the cyber/RPA community. I realize that they don't qualify for DFC's or Air Medals, because they don't fly combat missions in person.

Personally, if I was an RPA operator and was awarded a MSM/AFCOM/Achievement Medal, I would feel honored and humbled to be recognized for doing a largely under-recognized job.

When we already have awards that are appropriate in place for the VITAL but, NON HAZARDOUS mission they perform...they should be awarded them if merited. To create an new award just for them is a waste of money in today's fiscally constrained enviornment. FWIW, I can't see the justification in it other than to stroke ego's of some who feel they should get the same awards as people who physically engage the enemy.