(AF) Officers awarded more medals proportionally

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Officers vs. enlisted
Who gets more combat medals?


Officers awarded more medals proportionally
By Erik Holmes - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Feb 15, 2009 14:31:03 EST

The numbers, for 2002 through 2008, give credence to the long-standing perception that the Air Force recognizes officers and fliers more than enlisted airmen and support personnel.

Airmen in flying roles, both officer and enlisted, are more likely to receive a medal than those in support roles. Officers also get the bulk of the Bronze Stars, a non-flight medal and the highest decoration awarded in large numbers.

The notable exception in medal recognition is that enlisted members receive more valor and heroism awards than their superiors.

“The Air Force is an officers’ branch of service,” said retired Chief Master Sgt. Rick Dean, who heads the Air Force Sergeants Association, an advocacy organization for enlisted airmen.

“A lot of times, the officers get the glory and the enlisted are sort of left out,” Dean said. “Whoever’s in charge is going to get the glory, whoever’s in the spotlight flying the plane.”

Rest of article at: http://airforcetimes.com/news/2009/02/airforce_medals_021509/%2e