The Combat Action Badge (CAB) is much more than just an award. It’s a symbol of their dedication, courage and even resilience, specially made for non-infantry soldiers. But what are they, and what did veterans have to go through to get this award? Let’s delve into the history, criteria, more about what it symbolizes, how it’s awarded, and what is the value of it all.
Table of Contents
History of the Combat Action Badge
This badge was established in 2005 by the U.S. Army to recognize the role of soldiers. It acknowledges both their bravery and service regardless of their role. Before it was introduced, only infantry soldiers could receive the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB). The idea behind CAB was to provide equal recognition and not just to those with infantry positions.
Infantry positions refer to soldiers who are trained and equipped for direct ground combat. Meanwhile, non-infantry soldiers are trained to support the overall mission and ensure its success.
It may include the following:
- Logistics: Supplies food, ammunition and equipment to frontlines.
- Medical: Provides both care and treatment to injured soldiers.
- Artillery: Operates long-range weaponry for infantry soldiers.
- Engineers: Constructs defensive positions, clears obstacles and repairs infrastructure.
- Intelligence: Gathers information about enemy movements, strategies and terrain.
Eligibility Criteria
There are some specific criteria that veterans should meet in order to earn the Combat Action Badge.
These include:
- Need to be in a military occupational specialty (MOS) that does not qualify them for the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Combat Medical Badge (CMB).
- Have to present during direct enemy engagement.
Design and Symbolism
This unique design symbolizes the bravery and education of the soldiers who earned it. It has two main elements, which are a wreath and a central emblem. It does feature a combat knife to represents the soldier’s ability to engage in close-quarters combat at any given time. Whether you are in logistics or medical, you have to be prepared and be able to adapt in an unpredictable environment like combat.
How the Combat Action Badge is Awarded
This is quite a formal process despite what many individuals think. Soldiers should provide documentation to support the claim.
Here is what it includes:
- Official reports: This will be a detailed account of what happened, including the circumstances of the engagement.
- Approval process: A commanding officer or authorized personnel are to review and then approve the award if applicable
This way, brave soldiers are recognised when they face the enemy. Many veterans wear the Combat Action Badge with pride.
The Value of it All
This is not just a flashy element to a jacket, but it is also of deep emotional significance because it’s a reminder of their experiences in combat. It also reminds them of the challenges that they faced and the bonds that they formed.
FAQs
Can officers earn the CAB?
Yes, officers can earn the Combat Action Badge. In fact, both personnel and officers can earn this badge if they meet the eligibility criteria.
How is the CAB worn on the uniform?
This badge is typically worn on the left breast and above any ribbons or other badges. The reason behind it is to emphasize the significance and prestige. Military badges like the CAB is considered a high honor. So, wearing it above ribbons and badges visually signifies that importance.
Can a soldier receive multiple CABs?
Yes, if soldiers meet the criteria for each of their claims, they can have more than one CAB badge. However it is not likely since each badge has to be during different deployments or conflicts. This means that one badge can be owned per qualifying period or soldiers are offered subsequent awards like stars to be worn on the badge which indicates multiple awards.
Veterans That Have Earned the Badge
While many veterans have earned the Combat Action Badge, not much has been reported because it remains personal and private. This is due to the military’s private nature and because it is awarded in combat situations that are honored publicly recognised as metals, unlike the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart.
Conclusion
The Combat Action Badge recognizes soldiers who faced the enemy in logistics, medical, artillery, engineering, or intelligence. All that is required is that personnel meet the criteria. Of course, a process must be followed, which starts with filing a report and ends with approval. This badge is not publicly earned or recognised for other medals or rewards. Thus, information regarding these veterans is scarce.
If you or someone else has earned the Combat Action Badge, honoring and recognising bravery is important. This can be done through sharing the story and learning more about it.
Here is to the heroes that keep us safe!
