The Combat Action Badge (CAB) is a military decoration that is awarded to members of the United States Army who have engaged in active ground combat. The badge was established in 2005 to recognize the sacrifices and bravery of soldiers who have fought in combat zones. To be eligible for the CAB, a soldier must have been assigned to a unit that is engaged in ground combat and have personally engaged in combat or been under hostile fire. The CAB is considered a prestigious award and is worn on the uniform to signify a soldier's participation in combat operations.
The CAB is awarded to soldiers who have served in a variety of combat roles, including infantry, artillery, and armor. The badge is also awarded to soldiers who have served in support roles, such as medical personnel and communications specialists, if they have been engaged in combat or have come under hostile fire. The CAB is not limited to soldiers who have been wounded in combat, but rather is awarded to any soldier who has demonstrated bravery and sacrifice in the face of enemy fire.
Key Points
- The Combat Action Badge is a military decoration awarded to members of the United States Army who have engaged in active ground combat.
- To be eligible for the CAB, a soldier must have been assigned to a unit that is engaged in ground combat and have personally engaged in combat or been under hostile fire.
- The CAB is considered a prestigious award and is worn on the uniform to signify a soldier's participation in combat operations.
- The badge is awarded to soldiers who have served in a variety of combat roles, including infantry, artillery, and armor.
- The CAB is not limited to soldiers who have been wounded in combat, but rather is awarded to any soldier who has demonstrated bravery and sacrifice in the face of enemy fire.
History of the Combat Action Badge
The Combat Action Badge was established on May 2, 2005, by the Secretary of the Army. The badge was created to recognize the sacrifices and bravery of soldiers who have fought in combat zones. The CAB is similar to the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) and the Combat Medical Badge (CMB), which are also awarded to soldiers who have engaged in combat. However, the CAB is more inclusive and can be awarded to soldiers who have served in a variety of combat roles, not just infantry or medical personnel.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Combat Action Badge, a soldier must have been assigned to a unit that is engaged in ground combat and have personally engaged in combat or been under hostile fire. The soldier must also have been performing their assigned duties in an area where hostile fire was present and must have been at risk of injury or death. The CAB can be awarded to soldiers who have served in a variety of combat roles, including infantry, artillery, and armor, as well as soldiers who have served in support roles, such as medical personnel and communications specialists.
| Combat Role | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Infantry | Must have engaged in combat or been under hostile fire while performing assigned duties. |
| Artillery | Must have been assigned to a unit that is engaged in ground combat and have personally engaged in combat or been under hostile fire. |
| Armor | Must have been performing assigned duties in an area where hostile fire was present and must have been at risk of injury or death. |
| Medical Personnel | Must have been assigned to a unit that is engaged in ground combat and have personally engaged in combat or been under hostile fire while performing medical duties. |
Symbolism of the Combat Action Badge
The Combat Action Badge is a symbol of a soldier’s bravery and sacrifice in the face of enemy fire. The badge is worn on the uniform to signify a soldier’s participation in combat operations and is considered a prestigious award. The CAB is also a symbol of a soldier’s commitment to their unit and their country, and is a reminder of the sacrifices that soldiers make in order to protect their fellow soldiers and their country.
Design of the Combat Action Badge
The Combat Action Badge is a silver badge that features a shield with a sword and a rifle crossed over it. The shield is surrounded by a wreath of oak leaves, which symbolize strength and courage. The sword and rifle represent the combat arms, and the shield represents the protection of the soldier. The badge is worn on the uniform above the left pocket, and is considered a prestigious award.
In conclusion, the Combat Action Badge is a prestigious award that recognizes the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers who have engaged in combat. The badge is not limited to soldiers who have been wounded in combat, but rather is awarded to any soldier who has demonstrated bravery and sacrifice in the face of enemy fire. The CAB is a symbol of a soldier's commitment to their unit and their country, and is a reminder of the sacrifices that soldiers make in order to protect their fellow soldiers and their country.
What is the Combat Action Badge?
+The Combat Action Badge is a military decoration that is awarded to members of the United States Army who have engaged in active ground combat.
Who is eligible for the Combat Action Badge?
+To be eligible for the Combat Action Badge, a soldier must have been assigned to a unit that is engaged in ground combat and have personally engaged in combat or been under hostile fire.
What is the symbolism of the Combat Action Badge?
+The Combat Action Badge is a symbol of a soldier’s bravery and sacrifice in the face of enemy fire. The badge is worn on the uniform to signify a soldier’s participation in combat operations and is considered a prestigious award.
