The Navy Reserve Meritorious Service Medal (NRMSM) is a prestigious award recognizing exceptionally meritorious service to the Navy Reserve. Receiving this medal once is a significant achievement, but earning a second award, indicated by a device, demonstrates an even higher level of consistent outstanding performance. This post will delve into the specifics of the NRMSM second award device, explaining its significance and the criteria required for this distinguished honor.
What is the Navy Reserve Meritorious Service Medal?
Before discussing the second award device, let's clarify the medal itself. The NRMSM is awarded to Navy Reserve personnel for exceptionally meritorious service performed in a duty of significant responsibility. This isn't simply about meeting expectations; it's about exceeding them consistently and significantly contributing to the mission and effectiveness of the Navy Reserve. The award considers the impact of the individual's actions, their leadership qualities, and the overall benefit to the Navy Reserve.
What is the Second Award Device for the NRMSM?
The second award device for the NRMSM, like many other military awards, is a small, often metallic device that is affixed to the ribbon of the medal. It indicates that the recipient has received the NRMSM more than once. This signifies a sustained pattern of extraordinary achievement, showcasing the recipient's ongoing commitment to excellence and their invaluable contributions to the Navy Reserve. The exact appearance of the device may vary slightly depending on the era of the award, but it will clearly denote a second or subsequent award.
How Do You Earn a Second NRMSM?
Earning a second NRMSM isn't simply a matter of time served. It requires a new period of exceptionally meritorious service, meeting the same high standards as the initial award. The second award must be based on a separate instance of outstanding achievement, demonstrating continued excellence and impactful contributions beyond the original award-winning service. The criteria are equally stringent, and the impact of the service must again be demonstrably significant to warrant such an honor. This requires meticulous documentation highlighting the achievements and their impact.
What are the Specific Criteria for a Second Award?
Unfortunately, there isn't a publicly available, detailed checklist for a second NRMSM. The criteria are largely subjective, focusing on the overall impact of the individual's contributions to the Navy Reserve. However, the following factors are commonly considered:
- Exceptional performance: The service must significantly exceed normal job expectations.
- Significant responsibility: The individual must have held a position of considerable responsibility and influence.
- Positive impact: The individual's actions must have demonstrably benefited the Navy Reserve.
- Leadership qualities: Effective leadership and mentorship are often key factors in receiving this award.
- Duration of service: While not a sole determinant, a sustained period of exceptional performance is usually required.
Is there a limit to the number of NRMSM awards?
There's technically no upper limit to the number of NRMSM awards a person can receive. However, each subsequent award requires a demonstrably new and exceptional achievement, making multiple awards extremely rare. The likelihood of receiving a third or fourth award is exceptionally low due to the stringent standards.
What are the differences between the first and second award?
The only visible difference between a first and second award is the presence of the second award device on the ribbon. The criteria for earning the medal remain the same—exceptionally meritorious service. The device simply signifies multiple instances of meeting these exceptional criteria.
This information should provide a comprehensive understanding of the Navy Reserve Meritorious Service Medal and its second award device. Remember, this is a highly coveted award, highlighting exceptional dedication and service to the Navy Reserve.
