The Navy Reserve Meritorious Service Medal (NRMSM) is a prestigious award recognizing significant contributions and exceptional performance by members of the Navy Reserve. Receiving this medal is a testament to dedicated service and outstanding achievements. But what happens when a reservist earns the award a second time? This article delves into the specifics of the second award device for the NRMSM, clarifying its significance and the criteria for earning it.
What is the Navy Reserve Meritorious Service Medal?
Before discussing the second award, let's understand the NRMSM itself. This medal is awarded to Navy Reserve personnel who demonstrate sustained superior performance, exceptional initiative, and significant contributions that go above and beyond their normal duties. These accomplishments must be clearly documented and meet stringent criteria set by the Navy. The actions or service must be of a significant nature and clearly distinguished from the performance of other similarly situated personnel.
What is the Second Award Device for the NRMSM?
When a Navy Reservist earns the NRMSM a second time, they are not awarded a second medal. Instead, they receive a second award device, which is a small bronze oak leaf cluster. This device is worn on the ribbon of the original NRMSM, indicating the multiple awards. This signifies the continued excellence and significant contributions made by the recipient, showcasing their sustained commitment to the Navy Reserve.
How Many Awards Can a Sailor Receive?
While there's no theoretical limit to the number of times a sailor can receive the NRMSM, each subsequent award must be equally deserving and meet the same high standards as the initial award. The awarding authority will carefully evaluate each nomination to ensure the merit and significance of the achievements. Each award necessitates substantial and demonstrably exceptional service. The accumulation of multiple awards represents an extraordinarily distinguished career in the Navy Reserve.
What are the Criteria for a Second (or Subsequent) NRMSM Award?
The criteria for a second or subsequent NRMSM award are identical to those of the first award. The key factors considered include:
- Exceptional Performance: The nominee must have consistently performed at a level far exceeding expectations, demonstrating exceptional initiative and leadership.
- Significant Contributions: Their actions must have resulted in significant improvements or achievements within their unit or the Navy Reserve as a whole.
- Duration of Service: While not explicitly a criterion, the duration and consistency of superior performance will significantly influence the decision.
- Documentation: Meticulous and detailed documentation of the nominee's achievements is crucial for successful nomination. This evidence must clearly illustrate the exceptional nature of their contributions.
What Does the Oak Leaf Cluster Symbolize?
The oak leaf cluster, a common device used across many military awards, symbolizes the continued achievement and meritorious service. In the case of the NRMSM, it's a visual representation of the sustained excellence and dedication of the recipient. It serves as a powerful symbol of their repeated and outstanding contributions to the Navy Reserve.
How is the NRMSM Nomination Process?
Nominating a deserving Navy Reservist for the NRMSM involves a rigorous process, requiring detailed documentation of their achievements and contributions. This often involves superiors providing detailed written accounts supporting their nomination. The nomination package is then reviewed at various levels within the chain of command before a final decision is made.
This detailed explanation aims to fully illuminate the significance of the Navy Reserve Meritorious Service Medal and its second award device. The award, and subsequent awards, represent exceptional achievement and dedication within the Navy Reserve.
