Can some ribbon racks be over the top, or is more always better?

DITTO

Agree that this is a bit much DESPITE having "earned" them. Look at photo's of WW II admirals - Halsey, Mitscher, King, Spruance, Nimitz, etc. They all had two or three rows total. Today's flag officers are starting to look like officials of a banana republic, and the value of significant awards is thus diminished.

I agree on the point of singling out the individual who is just following the uniform regs. issued by the Air Force. I think that the point was that The US military uniform is beginning to look like what might come from a broadway or hollywood costume wardrobe. Civilians used to look at a service member in uniform and and assume that the more ribbons the greater the hero. There are troops out there with a chestfull of color who may never been in a area of conflict.

Don't get me wrong. Any man or woman who puts on the uniform is a hero by my definition which is to knowingly place yourself in a situation where you may be injured or lose your life in service of others.

Personal awards like good conduct ribbons, campaign awards, wars, conflicts i.e Iraq, Vietnam, Korea etc. and awards for personal or unit valor for acts in war or peace are fine. However perhaps acknowledgement for recruiting, drill instructor, or other "I was there" type recognition could be resticted to letters of commendation/certificates in your service record.

I am not sure that if it is in your file that are you "Required" to wear it are you? This is almost making want to look up each of his Ribbons to see if they even make sense....LOL

LTC Lowell Marx - Yep, it happens. My son was awarded an AAM as a Marine assigned to secure an LZ in Haiti following the overthrow of Aristide in '04.
The citation stated (paraphrased) a number of civilians with various weapons numbering approximately 300, attacked the helicopter as it landed in order to gain access to the food being brought in for that community. LCPL Brandon led his security unit consisting of five other Marines from their established post to the landing zone forming a security perimeter immediately around the aircraft assuring the safety of the crew, the aircraft and its cargo by repelling the attack thus giving time for the aircraft to leave the area undamaged.

CMSgt Bill Yarnall - I was thinking he would have been an AC-130 Gunship Aircrew. I would assume he would have Master Jump Wings at that rank if he was a PJ. Aircrew makes the most sense for how many tours and the presence of multiple Distinguished Flying Crosses he has. The Joint medals make me think AFSOC. I know AC-130 crew from 4th SOS received the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Ultimately, I am impressed with the resume this Senior NCO is wearing. I'm always fascinated by the story a uniform can tell.

LTC Lowell Marx - Probably got it in a joint exercise. I knew some AFSOC guys with NavComs aswell.

If a military man or woman is awarded a medal or medals, they deserve to wear them!!! End of conversation!!!