Navy Arctic Service Ribbon

The Navy Arctic Service Ribbon (NASR) is a military award established to recognize service members who have completed qualifying service in the Arctic region. Here is a detailed explanation covering its rules, history, and important information: Authorization and Effective Date: The NASR was authorized by OPNAVNOTE 1650 on June 3, 1987, and is effective for service conducted on or after January 1, 1982. Eligibility Criteria: The NASR is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy and Marine Corps, as well as certain civilians, including resident aliens of the U.S., who have completed a minimum of 28 days of duty (consecutive or non-consecutive) in the Arctic area of engagement (AOE), which encompasses land, sea, and airspace above the Arctic Circle. Specific qualifications include: 1. For personnel stationed at remote ice camps or divers working under the ice: - Each day of duty counts as two days toward NASR eligibility. - Note that Marine Corps personnel undergoing routine annual cold weather training above the Arctic Circle do not receive the two-for-one credit. 2. For aircraft crew members: - Only one day's credit is awarded for flights in and/or out of the AOE within any 24-hour period. Award Elements: The NASR consists solely of a ribbon; no medal, citation, or certificate is issued upon its award. Additionally, there are no subsequent awards or authorized devices for this ribbon, meaning personnel cannot receive multiple NASRs for different periods of qualifying service. Awarding Authority: Commanding Officers (COs) of ships or units operating above the Arctic Circle, who possess the authority to award the Navy Achievement Medal (NAM), may award the NASR. It is their responsibility to ensure that appropriate entries are made in the military service records of those awarded the ribbon. Historical Context: The NASR recognizes the unique challenges and environments faced by service members deployed in Arctic conditions. The establishment of the ribbon reflects a commitment to acknowledge significant contributions made by personnel in these harsh climates. Notable Recipients: While specific notable recipients are not documented in the award criteria, the ribbon is reflective of service members operating in extreme environments, indicative of their dedication and resilience during operations above the Arctic Circle. In summary, the NASR serves as a testament to the service and sacrifices of personnel who have operated in Arctic conditions, with specific eligibility rules and a straightforward awarding process, recognizing their unique contributions to military readiness in challenging environments.