How do I earn an AAM?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 21:50:33 -0400

Earn, not "how do I get an AAM. My unit has AT next month, and I'm looking to stand out. So far I think I have a good impression on my PSG, he waived my promotion to PFC (told my unit "doesn't do waivers"), and selected me over an E4 (4 years TIS over me) when we both volunteered for the full month of AT. So my question to you would be, as a leader, what kind of behavior would you look for in a soldier that would cause you to recommend them for an AAM?

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jun 14 at 2018 9:54 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 21:54:18 -0400

Look it is an Achievement award- you have to shine above and beyond all the others at the entire AT. You have to impress him with knowledge, can do attitude, and leading others. It's the same for any non-valor medal/award.

Response by SSG Paul Strobaugh made Jun 14 at 2018 9:55 PM

SSG Paul Strobaugh — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 21:55:20 -0400

It sounds like you're doing all the right things, but those who are seeking awards typically find themselves doing irresponsible things to go above and beyond to "earn" them. My advice is to keep doing what you're doing and if the opportunity comes to go above and beyond what your JOB is then you should definitely seize it. Don't expect awards for simply doing your job, even for doing it very well. You must ACHIEVE, above and beyond the parameters of your duty position, if you want to add any bling. But, don't seek it out - seize your moments and let your leaders reward you for it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2018 10:10 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 22:10:59 -0400

One who doesn't serve himself but serves others, puts the mission first, and is an example to others..

Response by LTC John Mohor made Jun 14 at 2018 10:21 PM

LTC John Mohor — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 22:21:58 -0400

Just do your very best in all you do. Remember wether you earn an AAM this AT period or not it all turns cumulative until you receive an award for achievement or service. Back in my LT days due to a mix of reserve time as well as active I did all three years as a 2LT never having received a sniff at an award. It wasn't until over four years of service that I finally received when I least expected it an AAM for achievement. So far it sounds like you're doing all the right things. Just be patient, avoid unnecessary risks and be safe minded in all that you do! Good luck and enjoy that 29 day AT!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2018 10:25 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 22:25:11 -0400

Please bear with my somewhat simplified analogy.
Medals in the Army are like girls. When you stop actively pursuing them like trophies, you’ll have greater success in attaining them.
Act normally, do your job to the best of your abilities, and don’t go on the hunt. Your superiors, much like young ladies in a social setting, will generally see right through the knuckleheads who are simply on the hunt.
Those who perform well and stand out by simply performing well are usually rewarded accordingly.

If you’re getting promoted early, it would appear you’re on the right track. Don’t change what got you there. Just some thoughts. Best of luck to you.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2018 11:14 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 23:14:17 -0400

For the reserves AT is the "it" moment. This is the yearly event that typically makes up the bulk of the NCO reviews as well as the best opportunity for awarding outstanding performance. Your leadership generally knows this. I would suggest asking this directly with your Squad Leader and PSG. You will have to balance the fine line between asking to be awarded and letting your leadership know that "Hey, I am wanting to really perform above expectations. What can I do towards that goal?" This can plant the seed in their head that you should be watched.

When I am considering "AT Awards recommendations" the things I look at are:
1. Is the Soldier consistently taking on responsibilities above his grade?

2. Did the Soldier's performance of his duties have a significant contribution to the mission? And at your level, was the Soldier able to perform his duties without needing to frequently pull myself or others from their duties. *Note: I'm not saying that you should not seek out good instructions and guidance. But if you are the one that is always first on the line checking your vehicle or always up and lending a hand in morning barracks clean up..basic general Soldier duties without complaint.. Well that goes a long way.

As others have probably mentioned, don't go into AT with the goal of getting an award. You will end up developing a false sense of entitlement that will eventually overcome all the good you have already been noted for.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2018 12:55 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 00:55:44 -0400

Aside from what everyone else has already said, realistically it depends on your leader. I've unfortunately known VERY lazy leaders throughout the Army who will avoid recommending a stellar Soldier for award, because they don't want to put in the effort to write the DA 638.

Now if it's a circumstance where the Battalion Commander puts out "send me X number of names for AAM/COA/Coins" then the chances are even higher, because the award has basically been pre-approved, its just a matter of which write-up reads the best.

That being said, be that Soldier who doesn't need to be worried about. Be that Soldier who can be assigned a task, and the PSG knows without a doubt you will get it down quickly and accurately, and without him having to watch your every step. Be that Soldier who does't wait to receive a task, but asks, "SFC/SSG, what can I take off of your plate so that you can focus on something else?" Be that Soldier who takes initiative to identify gaps, but ALSO develops and presents a complete plan of action to fix it (quoting regulatory guidance helps). Lastly, be that Soldier who accepts and completes the task without complaint; there are things even your PSG doesn't want to do, but when you have a team of Soldiers who understand that and get it done, it helps boost the PSGs morale, and hopefully they will return the favor. That doesn't mean not to ask clarifying questions, or make tactful recommendations; there is a difference between "Sergeant, why can't we just do it this way other way" and "Sergeant, I was reading through regulation XYZ, and I think I've found a way to quickly accomplish your task using fewer personnel. I'll take the lead on it, and those we don't need can take a break."

All of that requires YOU to take it upon yourself to further learn your job from regulations, training manuals, and SOPs so that you can display a level of competence above that of your peers and what's normally expected of your paygrade. This doesn't mean going around snapping at other PFCs or SPCs, its a personal display of competence and leadership.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2018 6:08 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 06:08:01 -0400

Normally when I went to AT which was normally in another state, the unit we were assisting would write up and present the COAs and awards. But I guess your Unit can recognize you aswell. Honestly, my advice would be to just enjoy what your doing. Because you may bust your ass because you want the AAM and it never comes, then you’ll be ticked off bro. And remember....anyone who witnesses an act can put in a 638, so it doesn’t have to be your PSG. It could be your battle buddy.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2018 6:35 AM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 06:35:23 -0400

Work hard, show initiative and offer solutions . After that you will see award coming your way. To get a waver however is much more competitive, score 300 on your next APFT and you go to the Soldier of the month board; that should place you above your peers.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2018 8:08 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 08:08:03 -0400

If you are looking to be awarded for every single success, you’re in he wrong business

Response by SSG Brian Carpenter made Jun 15 at 2018 8:13 AM

SSG Brian Carpenter — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 08:13:52 -0400

Seeking awards is not the way to get them. I earned every award I ever got but I was never trying. Just strap up, be a hi speed soldier and work your ass off. Awards and promo6follow.

Response by SGT Rick Colburn made Jun 15 at 2018 10:48 AM

SGT Rick Colburn — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 10:48:51 -0400

IF YOU WANT SOMETHING IN THE MILITARY AND YOU WANT IT BAD ENOUGH WORK YOUR TAIL OFF TO GET IT THAT IS HOW YOU GET REWARDED NOT BY HAVING ANYTHING GIVEN TO YOU YOU HAVE TO EARN IT SAME WITH RESPECT YOU DON'T GET IT OR HAVE IT YOU HAVE TO EARN IT

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2018 10:51 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 10:51:52 -0400

I would like to add that you could do all the right things and still not be recommended for an AAM.

In fact, not getting one is the most likely outcome.

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Jun 15 at 2018 3:05 PM

MAJ Byron Oyler — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 15:05:26 -0400

Don’t chase after medals, be successful in all you do, and the awards may come. Plenty of shitbags have gotten bronze stars since 2001 and what is on your chest does not say much. You want an award, find a worth cause and volunteer. Volunteer medal is far higher in my book than AAM, it says you cared for something and they kept asking you back. Helping people like that tells me a lot about you and you get promotion points.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jun 15 at 2018 4:05 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 16:05:02 -0400

SGT Private RallyPoint Member, you're asking the wrong question. You should be asking yourself and your supervisor, "How can I be the most highly motivated and squared away Soldier in my unit?" You're a PFC, so you are expected to still be in the learn mode much of the time. Take every opportunity to learn from your sergeants and from training opportunities. Volunteer to be part of opportunities where you'll get to test your knowledge and skills against new challenges and to lean new things. Focus on the technical aspects of you job and become a truly expert mechanic. The opportunities for advancement and awards will normally take care of themselves if you concentrate on the most important thing: the mission.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2018 7:23 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Jun 2018 19:23:42 -0400

This is a tough subject, I've had soldiers ask how to get them and I explain the standards. It's funny though, the ones that want them remind you every minute their accomplishments, even if it is just doing their job. Usually the ones that deserve them are just hard working go getters. Either was there is no harm is asking your leadership what the standards would be. But don't beg for one. I noticed when someone asked about getting but didn't hound me, I looked at them closer, and usually ended up getting one. But the ones that were always telling me what they did so I could write them an award, we're so annoying I only remembers their negatives.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2018 9:25 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Jun 2018 21:25:55 -0400

Are you looking for an award for the AT that y'all still be doing or are you just asking in general how do you very an AAM? My advice if you really want one compete and win a soldier of the quarter board.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2018 10:04 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 10:04:59 -0400

If your serious about an award, research AR 600-8-22. Understand the requirements and process of awards. Understand the different types and who can approve them. That's how I learned about the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM). I've been regularly donating plasma and platelets since high school. I prepared the memo and submitted it with documentation to my supervisor and eventually the battalion commander approved it. The MOVSM was worth 10 points like an AAM on my E-6 promotion packet. So research the regs and understand requirements. No one is more responsible for own career than yourself.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2019 10:27 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 10:27:40 -0500

Have you been to Basic Leader Course (BLC) yet? Go to that and earn honor graduate & then they'll probably put you in for an award I would think. Like my old Brigade Commander told us, awards are for what you have done well, promotions are for the potential you have to serve at a higher rank and responsibility.

Just keep doing well, doing things without being asked & be the best Soldier you can be & then awards will come.

Response by SPC David S. made Sep 13 at 2019 9:50 AM

SPC David S. — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 09:50:53 -0400

Find ways to fill in voids with productive work that is not necessary in your wheelhouse. Just make sure your work is squared away including PT before taking on anything extra or beyond your MOS responsibilities. Check with your BN's of company's armorer - they always need help in cleaning especially after qualifying - may be a way to get some bling.