Navy Medals and Awards - Overview
The Purpose of Military Awards
Awards are important symbols of public recognition for rewarding extraordinary
heroism, exceptionally meritorious service, or outstanding achievement
and other acts or services which are above and beyond that normally
expected and which distinguish an individual or unit among those performing
similar acts or services.
Navy awards are intended to recognize exceptional performance and
valor. The value of an award is that it is given in cases only where
it is clearly deserved.
Awards recognizing specific acts should be bestowed as soon as possible
after achievement. Due consideration must be given to security requirements,
the time required to properly investigate the event, validation of
facts, and processing. Only recommendations involving the most sensitive
operations should be forwarded as classified documents. Classified
awards slow the process considerably and, in most cases, valid documentation
can be drafted without classification. A classified award contains
an unclassified citation and follows the same procedures as an unclassified
award with the exception of handling criteria.
Awards and Officer Promotions
Although the Navy Officer Promotions System does not give points for
personal military awards. The performance associated with the awards
will have a direct affect on your evaluations and/or selection board
decisions.
Awards and Enlisted Advancements
The Navy Enlisted Advancement System (NEAS) grants promotion points
for awards and medals. These points count toward your final multiple
score (FMS). Visit the Navy Knowledge Online (NKO) portal for more information.
The Awards Points
Personal awards range in value from 1 point for a "Letter of
Commendation" to 10 points for the "Congressional Medal
of Honor." On average, most awards carry a value of 2 to 3 points
each. You can earn up to 10 or 12 points (depending on your paygrade)
through personal awards.
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