How can I find out if I am qualified for a Kosovo deployment patch?

2024-10-01T11:31:18-04:00

We had a deployment to Kosovo where we got Gold spurs for hazard pay and imminent danger pay, along with being exempt from taxes. People are saying that qualifies us for a combat patch. Where do I find the definitive answer on wether this is true or false?

Response by COL Randall C. made Oct 1 at 2024 12:15 PM

2024-10-01T12:15:17-04:00

Short answer - you're not eligible (AR 670-1* is your definitive source).

Eligibility for the wear of a SSI-MOHC isn't solely determined by your receiving hostile fire pay (HFP)/imminent danger pay (IDP) and a combat zone tax exclusion (although those are two of the requirements). There are many locations where you'll receive HFP/IDP and a tax exclusion, but will not meet the eligibility for a SSI-MOHC.

The wear of a SSI is also determined if you participated in a designated campaign (AR 670-1, 21-18c), and service in Kosovo hasn't been designated as one of those campaign locations.

... and yes, many service members gripe about not being able to wear a SSI-MOHC for their Kosovo deployment.
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* AR 670-1 (Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia) - https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN30302-AR_670-1-000-WEB-1.pdf

ARN30302-AR_670-1-000-WEB-1.pdf