Combat Action Ribbon

The Combat Action Ribbon (CAR) is an award for members of the Navy and Marine Corps, as well as personnel from the Coast Guard when operating under Navy command. It recognizes individuals who have actively participated in ground or surface combat engagements while under enemy fire. ### History The CAR was established through SECNAVNOTE 1650 on February 17, 1969, with its criteria effective from December 7, 1941. It was created to specifically honor service members who were in combat situations where they were exposed to enemy fire, highlighting their bravery and dedication during combat. ### Criteria and Eligibility To be eligible for the CAR, service members must meet the following requirements: - They must be in pay grades O-6 and below. - They must have rendered satisfactory performance under enemy fire during ground or surface combat engagements. - Active participation in combat includes direct exposure to enemy-hosted improvised explosive devices (IEDs), mines, and similar actions. - Since the establishment of the CAR, its eligibility criteria have been updated to include specific conditions related to IEDs and mines, retroactive to October 7, 2001. Individuals may be awarded the CAR for participation in specific operations, as listed by SECNAV. This includes operations during the Vietnam War, U.S. actions in Grenada, Lebanon, the Persian Gulf, and numerous post-9/11 military actions【4:3†source】【4:16†source】. ### Award Elements The CAR is represented by a distinct ribbon, and upon the first award, no medal, citation, or certificate is issued; only the ribbon is awarded. Subsequent awards are denoted by gold or silver stars: a gold star represents a subsequent award for a different operation, while a silver star is worn in lieu of five gold stars. ### Procedures and Regulations Nomination for the CAR must follow specific administrative procedures, involving an Award Recommendation Form and a Summary of Action (SOA) detailing the events that justify the award. Eyewitness accounts and supporting documentation may also be included, although they are not always required. The CAR may only be awarded once for a designated operation, regardless of the number of combat engagements the individual was involved in【4:1†source】【4:2†source】. ### Notable Recipients While specific notable recipients of the CAR may not be widely documented, one of the most recognized awards periods includes operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where many service members earned this distinction for combat actions during those intense conflicts. ### Conclusion The Combat Action Ribbon serves as an important recognition of valor and service under fire within the Navy and Marine Corps, tailored to honor those who have faced the dangers of combat directly. The award reflects a commitment to duty amid the often-chaotic nature of war, acknowledging both individual bravery and participation in collective military efforts during hostile engagements.