Ar 614-30 Overseas Service Ribbon: What You Need To Know

The Army Overseas Service Ribbon (OSR) was established by the Secretary of the Army on April 10, 1981. Starting on August 1, 1981, the OSR is awarded to all members of the Active Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve in an active Reserve status for successfully completing overseas tours. This means that if you serve in a foreign country for a specific period of time, you are eligible to receive the OSR.

The OSR is a tangible recognition of your service and dedication to the Army. It’s a reminder of your contribution to the Army’s global mission and your experiences abroad. The OSR is worn on the left side of the uniform, above the Army Service Ribbon.

To qualify for the OSR, your overseas tour must meet specific criteria:

Duration: You must serve for at least 30 consecutive days in a foreign country.
Location: The location of your service must be officially designated as an overseas location by the Department of the Army.
Purpose: The service must be for a military purpose, not just a personal trip.

The OSR is a great way to show off your service to the Army. If you have any questions about the OSR, be sure to reach out to your unit’s personnel office. They can provide you with more information about the eligibility requirements and the process for applying for the ribbon.

You can earn the Overseas Service Ribbon if you’re a member of the Navy or Marine Corps and serve for at least a year at a permanent overseas duty station. This means that you’ll need to be stationed outside of the continental United States for a continuous period of 12 months or more.

The Overseas Service Ribbon is a great way to recognize your dedication to serving your country abroad. It’s a visible symbol of your commitment to protecting our national interests in far-flung corners of the world.

Here’s what you need to know about qualifying for the Overseas Service Ribbon:

Permanent Duty Station: The ribbon is awarded for duty at a designated permanent overseas location. This excludes temporary deployments or short-term assignments.
Consecutive or Cumulative Duty: You can earn the ribbon by serving for a full year consecutively at a single overseas location or by accumulating a total of 12 months across multiple overseas locations.
Duty Station Designation: It’s important to confirm that your duty station is officially recognized as a permanent overseas location for ribbon eligibility. You can find a list of eligible locations on the Department of Defense website or by contacting your command.

Remember that the Overseas Service Ribbon isn’t awarded automatically. You’ll need to submit a request to your command with supporting documentation, including your orders and a statement verifying your duty period. So keep track of your overseas assignments and make sure you’re properly recognized for your service.

You won’t receive an Overseas Service Ribbon (OSR) for serving in Korea. However, you are eligible for the Korean Defense Service Medal (KDSM) for your service there.

The KDSM recognizes military personnel who served in Korea during a specific period. The medal acknowledges the importance of your contribution to the United States-Republic of Korea Alliance, which is vital for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

To be eligible for the KDSM, you must have served in Korea for a minimum period. The specific duration varies depending on your service branch and the time period of your deployment.

You can find more details about eligibility criteria and the KDSM on the official websites of the different branches of the United States Armed Forces.

Overseas Service Bars are cumulative, meaning each bar worn indicates another six-month period of service spent overseas. You can earn a bar for two separate deployments totaling six months. For example, if you spent three months overseas during one deployment and another three months during a second deployment, you would be eligible to wear one Overseas Service Bar. The Overseas Service Bars labeled “Korea” were used as Overseas Service Bars during World War II.

So, how do you calculate the number of Overseas Service Bars you can wear? It’s simple:

1. Add up the total time you spent overseas. This includes all deployments, regardless of whether they were for combat or non-combat purposes.
2. Divide the total time by six. This will give you the number of Overseas Service Bars you are eligible to wear. For example, if you spent 18 months overseas, you would be eligible to wear three Overseas Service Bars.

It’s important to note that you can only wear one Overseas Service Bar for each six-month period of overseas service, even if you spent more than six months overseas during that period. For example, if you spent nine months overseas, you can only wear one Overseas Service Bar for that time period.

Keep in mind that the rules for earning and wearing Overseas Service Bars can vary depending on the branch of service and the specific regulations in effect at the time of your service. If you have any questions about your eligibility to wear Overseas Service Bars, you should contact your unit’s personnel office or the appropriate military service branch.

The Army Service Ribbon is awarded to all members of the Army who successfully complete their initial entry training. This includes members of the Regular Army, the Army National Guard, and the United States Army Reserve in an active reserve status. The initial entry training requirement for officers is considered to be the successful completion of their Basic Officer Leadership Course (BOLC) or a similar course.

For enlisted personnel, initial entry training is typically completed at a Basic Combat Training (BCT) or Advanced Individual Training (AIT) location. The type of training depends on your military occupational specialty (MOS). Once you successfully complete your training, you will be awarded the Army Service Ribbon during a graduation ceremony.

The Army Service Ribbon symbolizes the successful completion of your initial entry training and your commitment to serving in the Army. It is a proud symbol of your dedication and sacrifice. Remember that “initial entry training” requirements for awarding the Army Service Ribbon can vary depending on your specific branch of service (Regular Army, Army National Guard, or Army Reserve) and your specific MOS. You should always consult with your recruiter or military advisor for the most current and accurate information.

The Vietnam Service Medal (VSM) was awarded to all members of the U.S. Armed Forces who served in Vietnam and its surrounding waters or airspace between July 3, 1965, and March 28, 1973. This means that if you served during this timeframe in these locations, you are eligible for the VSM.

It is important to understand the specifics of the qualification criteria. For instance, the service must have been in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace. This means that if you were stationed in a nearby country, such as Thailand or the Philippines, but did not physically set foot in Vietnam, you would not be eligible for the VSM. Additionally, the service must have occurred between the dates of July 3, 1965, and March 28, 1973. This timeframe is important because it encompasses the period of the Vietnam War, and the VSM is awarded specifically for service during this conflict.

To be eligible for the VSM, you must have served in Vietnam during this period, regardless of the length of your deployment or the specific unit you were assigned to. If you were deployed to Vietnam for even a short period, you would still qualify for the VSM. The VSM is a testament to the service of all U.S. Armed Forces personnel who contributed to the Vietnam War effort.

The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to all members of the U.S. Army Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve) for successfully completing Annual Training or Active Duty for Training for at least ten consecutive days on foreign soil.

This ribbon acknowledges the dedication and hard work of these soldiers, who have traveled abroad to enhance their training and skills. It is a symbol of their commitment to serving their country and to the Army Reserve’s mission. The Overseas Training Ribbon is a significant honor, signifying that the recipient has participated in essential training exercises that strengthen the United States’ military capabilities. It is a testament to the soldier’s willingness to go above and beyond the standard training requirements, demonstrating their dedication to their service.

The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to soldiers in recognition of their participation in vital training exercises conducted overseas. These training exercises provide soldiers with the opportunity to learn and practice new skills in a real-world environment. They also allow soldiers to interact with allied forces and gain valuable experience in operating in a diverse and challenging environment. The Overseas Training Ribbon is a tangible acknowledgement of this valuable experience, highlighting the soldier’s contributions to the overall readiness of the Army Reserve Components.

Army Regulation AR 614-30, Overseas Service, lays out the rules for how the Army selects, assigns, and rotates its soldiers to overseas duty stations. This regulation covers a lot of ground, including how long soldiers serve overseas, who is eligible, and the rules around service obligations.

Let’s break down some of the key aspects of AR 614-30 and what it means for soldiers:

Selection: The Army uses a variety of factors to decide who gets sent overseas. These factors can include things like your job skills, your language abilities, and your experience. The Army is always looking for qualified soldiers to fill important roles in its overseas operations.
Assignment: Once you’ve been selected, the Army will assign you to a specific duty station. This assignment can be based on your skills, the needs of the Army, and other factors.
Rotation: Soldiers typically serve a set length of time overseas before being rotated back to the United States. This rotation policy is designed to ensure that soldiers have the opportunity to serve overseas while also allowing them to return home to their families.

AR 614-30 is designed to be fair and equitable, providing soldiers with clear expectations and guidelines for overseas service. It also helps the Army to ensure that it has the right people in the right place at the right time to accomplish its mission.

If you are considering a career in the Army, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with AR 614-30 and understand how it might impact your career. You can find a copy of AR 614-30 on the Army’s website or through your local Army recruiter.

What Does AR 614-30 Cover?

AR 614-30 is a helpful guide for soldiers and their families when it comes to overseas assignments. It lays out the policies and benefits that come with these deployments, including command-sponsored travel, housing, medical care, and education for family members.

But let’s break it down a bit further. Imagine you’re a soldier getting ready for an overseas tour. AR 614-30 is your guide to understanding what’s available to you and your family.

Command-sponsored travel means the military covers the cost of your family’s trip to join you overseas. This can include airfare, ground transportation, and even temporary lodging if needed. This is a huge benefit, as it helps ease the financial burden of moving your loved ones across the globe.

Housing is another key aspect. AR 614-30 outlines different housing options for families. Depending on the location and availability, you may be able to get on-base housing, or you might be eligible for off-base housing allowances. These allowances help you find and pay for suitable housing in your new location.

Medical care is essential, especially when you’re in a new country. AR 614-30 ensures that your family has access to quality healthcare. Your family can use military medical facilities or civilian healthcare providers, depending on the availability and specific circumstances.

And finally, education for your children is also covered. AR 614-30 explains how your children can attend Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools overseas. This program provides a consistent and high-quality educational experience for military children, regardless of their location.

AR 614-30 is a valuable resource for families facing the challenges and rewards of an overseas assignment. It ensures that soldiers and their families have the support and resources they need to thrive, both on and off the base.

Yes, AR 614-30 allows for involuntary assignment to overseas service. This means that a soldier can be assigned to an overseas duty station even if they didn’t choose to go. However, this decision is not taken lightly. The Army will only assign a soldier overseas if it’s determined to be in the best interest of the Army and the soldier meets the eligibility requirements.

For example, if a soldier has a specific skill set that is urgently needed at a certain overseas location, the Army may decide to send them there, even if they haven’t volunteered.

So, what are the eligibility requirements for involuntary assignment?

Soldiers must be medically qualified. This means they must pass a physical exam and be deemed fit for overseas duty.
Soldiers must have the necessary training and experience. They need to be qualified for the specific job they will be doing overseas.
Soldiers must be in good standing with the Army. This means they shouldn’t have any disciplinary issues or outstanding legal matters.

To make sure the process is fair, soldiers who are being involuntarily assigned overseas are given a chance to appeal the decision. They can submit a request for a waiver or provide additional information that may change the Army’s decision.

But the question remains, can soldiers volunteer for specific overseas assignments?

The answer is yes! The Army encourages soldiers to volunteer for overseas duty, and they have the option to choose a specific location or mission if they meet the eligibility requirements.

Volunteering for overseas duty has several benefits. For instance, it allows soldiers to gain valuable experience in a different environment, learn new skills, and contribute to the Army’s mission in a meaningful way. Furthermore, it provides them with an opportunity to experience new cultures and broaden their horizons.

The Army recognizes that many soldiers want to take advantage of these opportunities and contribute to the Army’s global missions. They are often excited to volunteer for specific assignments, which allows them to grow professionally and personally while serving their country.

You’re right, AR 614-30 does allow for exceptions when determining overseas service eligibility or assignment. These exceptions can be granted for a variety of reasons, like medical limitations, humanitarian reasons, or unique professional development opportunities.

Let’s break down these exceptions a bit further:

Medical Limitations: If you have a medical condition that would make serving overseas dangerous or impossible, you may be granted an exception. This could include anything from a chronic illness to a recent injury.

Humanitarian Reasons: Sometimes, there are compelling humanitarian reasons why someone shouldn’t be assigned overseas. For example, if you have a close family member who needs your care, you might be able to request an exception.

Unique Professional Development Opportunities: If you have a unique opportunity to develop your skills or knowledge that would benefit the Army, you might be granted an exception from overseas service. This could include attending a specialized training program or working on a research project.

It’s important to remember that these are just examples. There may be other reasons why you could be granted an exception from overseas service. If you believe you may qualify for an exception, you should speak to your command or a military legal advisor. They can help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the process of requesting an exception.

Keep in mind, the Army prioritizes the needs of the service. While they do recognize individual needs and circumstances, they also need to ensure that they have enough personnel to fulfill their missions overseas.

Overseas Service – U.S. Army Garrisons

tailed information for all related record numbers, forms, and reports 30 are located in the ARIMS/Records for AR 614– Retention Schedule-Army Module of ARIMS and is U.S. Army Garrisons

Fact Sheet – Army

Army Overseas Service Ribbons (OSR) are awarded to Soldiers credited with a normal overseas tour completion. Tours lengths for Iraq and Afghanistan have army.mil

What qualifications are needed to be awarded the Overseas

Overseas tour completion is determined by AR 614-30. If a Soldier is credited with a normal overseas tour completion, then the Soldier may be awarded the OSR. RallyPoint

Army Overseas Service Military Ribbon

credited with a normal overseas tour completion in accordance with AR 614-30 (see Table 3-2). Soldiers who have overseas service with another branch of service (AF, Navy, Official United States Military Ribbons

What exceptions are there for being awarded the Overseas

AR 614-30: “Award of tour credit: A minimum of 11 continuous months in a TCS/TDY status in OCONUS areas where the unaccompanied tour length is between 18 and 24 months, RallyPoint

Assignments, Details, and Transfers: Overseas Service

AR 614–30 Overseas Service Specifically, this revision–o Incorporates change 1, issued 25 September 1998, which affected headquarters, Department of the Army time-on dtic.mil

Overseas ribbon : r/army – Reddit

AR 614-30, Overseas Service, Table 3-2 and Table 3-3. AR 670-1, Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia. Reddit

U.S. Army Overseas Service: Tour Length Policy Revision

Army Regulation 614-30, Army Overseas Service, includes policy and guidance on the tour lengths for overseas areas. The Official Home Page of the United States Army

AR 614-30 Overseas Service

Army Regulation AR 614-30, Overseas Service, prescribes policies and procedures governing the selection, assignment, and rotation of Army military personnel to, from, U.S. Military Regulations Search