How Common Are Multiple Awards of the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal Among Sailors?

Within the Naval and Marine Corps community, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (NAM) is one of the widely recognized honors. Its significance lies not only in its recognition of individual excellence but also in the incentive it provides for sustained high performance and exceptional service. Careerists like myself have often received more than one NAM throughout their careers, reflecting both the dedication to excellence within the ranks and the importance of continuous recognition of achievement.

Insights from Personal Experience

Over the course of my career, I received a total of four NAMs. My first award was given around the sixth year, with the last one awarded at the nineteenth year. This experience underscores the commonality of receiving multiple NAMs for sailors who consistently produce excellent work and go above and beyond their duties. I actively sought to recognize crew leaders, troops, and fellow servicemembers for significant accomplishments, innovations, and leadership within the team.

The Process and Benefits of Multiple Awards

I viewed the process of recommending individuals for NAMs as a way to acknowledge their extraordinary contributions. Whether a project was completed, a significant problem was solved, or a process was optimized, I believed it was crucial to bring these achievements to the attention of higher authorities. This recognition serves not just as a token of appreciation but also as an affirmation of their outstanding performance and dedication.

It is important to note that not all recommendations were approved, as some may have been downgraded to Letters of Commendation or Letters of Recognition. However, the principle behind the NAM remains consistent: it is a personal award acknowledging exceptional service and outstanding individual performance.

Recognition as a Motivator

The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal is a powerful tool for motivating high-performing sailors. It is a direct acknowledgement that reflects the individual's quality and effort, and it aligns with the highest naval traditions. These recognitions not only boost morale but also contribute to an individual's evaluation for promotions. Each award, including subsequent ones, grants two points towards the final multiple required for promotion, making it a tangible benefit of outstanding service.

In the spirit of the award, multiple NAMs are awarded in the form of a gold star placed on the medal ribbon for each additional award. For instance, if a sailor has received three NAMs, the medal would bear two gold stars, symbolizing the cumulative recognition of their achievements.

Conclusion

The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and exceptional service of those who wearer it. The commonality of receiving multiple awards is a reflection of the high standards maintained within the Naval and Marine Corps community. It serves not just as a personal honor but also as a driving force for sustained performance and continuous improvement.