Expert: Rod Powers - 7/21/2006

Question
I know the regulation on the combat patch.  I have been looking to see if they actually authorized the wear of the patch for the Kosovo deployment.  As far as I know, it was just a peacekeeping mission. thanks for your help.  I cannot find this anywhere on the army web page.
v/r
SFC Vann
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Followup To

Question -
I am currently serving as a advisor (UMA) for the reserves and national guard which helps in the deployments to Iraq and Afganistan.  I questioned a Soldier with a combat patch from Kosovo.  He told me that some Soldiers he deployed with were told they were authorized to wear the Big Red One.  I would like to know if this is true and where can i get those orders.  thank you.
v/r
SFC Vann

Answer -
Hi Bobby,

In order to be authorized to wear the patch, they would have had to have been assigned to the 1st Infrantry Division (Big Red One).  The criteria is in Army Regulation 670-1, which can be read online at:  http://usmilitary.about.com/od/armyreg/l/blar6701.htm.

Keep in mind that it's entirely possible that a Reserve member could have been assigned to an active duty unit, during a deployment.

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com


Answer
Hi Bobby,

Kosovo was a combat assignment, authorized combat pay, no different than Iraq or Afghanistan.

Generally, when we talk about combat assignments, it depends on whether or not the area was authorized immiment danger pay (combat pay).  Kosovo is.

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com