AF Combat Badge Coming in April

The Air Force will start awarding combat-recognition badges in April for Airmen who perform their duties under fire on the ground as well as in the air. Probable eligible assignments for the award will include missions Airmen undergo alongside Soldiers and Marines, or similar tasks done as convoy escorts, explosive ordnance disposal technicians and members of provincial reconstruction teams. Members who come under fire — including attacks by improvised explosive devices — may be eligible for the awards even if they do not return fire. Airmen through the rank of colonel can apply for the combat device by submitting a form along with a witness’ statement. The award will be retroactive to Sept. 11, 2001, although members at the Pentagon that day will not be eligible.