Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 8/11/2007

Question
I was wondering what orders to wear a combat patch looked like, If there were examples or templates anywhere? What do they have to state or say? Who has to sign them. Can a BN Commander sign them?

Answer
Dear Tyler --

If you were assigned to a combat unit that was assigned to a combat theater, and you deployed to the theater with that unit then you are authorized to wear the shoulder sleeve insignia (SSI) on your right shoulder (combat patch).

Usually the orders identify that you were assigned to the unit during their deployment, and the orders are signed by the S-1.  The orders can be one paragraph, and they can list multiple recipients of the SSI by name rank and social security number.

If you were a non-combat Soldier assigned to a combat unit in theater, then you need orders assigning or attaching you to the combat unit, and awarding you the SSI.  Again, the it is usually the S-1 who signs the orders, but a commander could sign them also.

Let me know if you have additional questions.