If you are an officer…
These templates are readily available under your unit in IAPS. If you are on your way to leading Marines, don’t wait until it is time to recognize them to learn what the process entails. Different units have different standards for submission – find out what your chain of command expects. Some want an additional document submitted with more intricate details and explanations, others are simply satisfied with the routing process on IAPS. Do your homework. Be prepared. Understand every step of the routing process. Do it a minimum of 30 days ahead. Once you have it drafted, edited, and submitted, keep your eye on the ball and make sure the award moves along in a timely manner. You owe it to your guys, it’s your job.
If you are an NCO or devoted Junior Marine…
When your chain of command profusely fails at recognizing Marines for going above and beyond their MOS, stop complaining and be the change. If you’re a junior Marine discuss it with your NCOs, if you’re an NCO discuss it with your Staff. Nothing is stopping you from writing up your peers for an award and submitting it to your leadership as a recommendation. Look at the summaries of action and the example citations. See if your Marines or peers meet the criteria for an award.
If you approach your staff with a written up summary and citation example, you could start the much needed cultural change at your unit. They could accept or reject it. However, remember closed mouths don’t get fed. Educate your higher on how to be better especially if they keep missing the mark. Leadership is bi-directional.
While the ultimate task to draft, submit, and award official recognition to the Marines falls solely on the one wearing shiny rank, there’s nothing stopping young leaders from guiding their higher into the right direction. Below are sanitized examples of citations and summary of actions across different MOSs and ranks.
Expeditionary Leader 
Leave a comment