Master Infantry Badge, is there a place for it in today's Army?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 11:31:04 -0400

My unit will be conducting a EIB in March and I recently seen an article about a possible MIB (master infantry badge) I like the idea, because both cib and EIB are in the same class, also for efmb and cmb for the medical field. What are your thoughts?

Response by SFC Michael Whipple made Oct 17 at 2015 11:35 AM

SFC Michael Whipple — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 11:35:23 -0400

I have not seen the article, however I like the theory that the EIB shows we know our tasks, and the CIB shows we've done our tasks. A Master Infantryman Badge, well, I hope you can post the article, for I am interested in reading it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 11:45 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 11:45:48 -0400

Where did you see the article. I am curious to read about it. I do like the concept. I haven't worn my EIB in a long long time. Maybe if they just made the rifle and the box gold. I would like to see something like this. I can't think of any other badges, outside the of medic badges that this falls into.

It could look like this.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Oct 17 at 2015 11:51 AM

LTC Bink Romanick — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 11:51:55 -0400

SSG Private RallyPoint Member is this for holders of both the CIB and EIB?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 12:04 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 12:04:27 -0400

By "article", do you mean a post on RP? I asked the great Google wizard and there were no other articles about a Master Infantry Badge.
I think it sounds ridiculous. In a decade most of the people in the Army won't have seen combat and it will be a moot point.
Plus, the CIB/CAB/CMB have been over awarded as it is. I've seen entire platoons get awarded blanket combat awards for literally doing nothing more than being in a convoy that got hit with an IED, or taking cover during a mortar attack, or - my favorite - being in the vicinity of a stray shot fired from across the river.
I think adding another layer of fluff would actually devalue the CIB.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 12:21 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 12:21:11 -0400

I think it's a good thought. But I wouldn't make it rate more just have a different bage(like the crossed rifles wreathed, kinda like the rifle qual badge) and have it under the CIB but over other badges. Because while it is hard to get it show you stood where the rubber met the road.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Oct 17 at 2015 12:21 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 12:21:12 -0400

If they take the EIB to the next level, then perhaps they should expand the concept for everybody. Why not have an expert/efficiency badge for each branch involving basic combat skills and branch specific tasks? I think It would be a morale booster and a way to maintain high standards for all especially in the combat skills area. The EIB commo, NBC and medical tasks along with the APFT and marksmanship on the standard M16/M4 could serve as the test core common to all branches. Then each branch could select their specific tasks unique to them to round out the test.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 12:25 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 12:25:48 -0400

Well, I'm not an infantryman, but I feel it's not a great idea. This is just my own personal opinion because I haven't read the Master Infantry Badge article. I need more info as to why have the badge and the requirements to meet for it. I like the fact that when infantrymen go Ranger, SF and SF-D they're setting themselves apart from basic infantrymen; besides once you guys making MSG/1SG and SGM/CSM you are in my opinion masters of your MOS....

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Oct 17 at 2015 12:27 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 12:27:41 -0400

They already have one. It's called "survive to retirement with back and knees intact".

Response by SSG Kenneth Suarez made Oct 17 at 2015 12:40 PM

SSG Kenneth Suarez — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 12:40:41 -0400

Agree with the others. Can you provide a source?

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Oct 17 at 2015 12:46 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 12:46:50 -0400

The CIB and the EIB are not the same. Thats like saying if you have the Ranger Tab you are at the same level as one wearing the Scroll..... or a Master Blaster compared to a Parachutist with a Star. There is no comparison. And, I don't seem to understand because the same logic applies to the MIB vs. the CIB.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 1:11 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 13:11:38 -0400

I don't think they should. The infantry already has their own badges. I think they should focus on other MOS if they want to start adding more. Like Combat Engineers for example should for sure get a badge for that MOS. Not just speaking because I am a 12B. It is what I know so I can only talk about it. But we do go without notice and we do infantry stuff more then demolitions. I think it is great the Infantry has badges. Leave it alone. Don't add to it. The army is always changing got that. But they always pick the wrong thing to waste money on. If more badges is what is next then look at a MOS that don't get credit. It is getting crazy lately with all the changing in uniforms and the way we do PT. The changing of schools and MOSes. The army has worked for over 200 years. They are flirting with traditions now. No purpose in doing that. Just my take on it. Almost time for the Alabama and Texas A&M game. GO AGGIES!!

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Oct 17 at 2015 1:22 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 13:22:16 -0400

Not to be negative, but does this go back to the "everybody gets a medal" thing? What would be the honest point in this? A master infantryman...so if he has Ranger school, has NCOER's to show his competence in the MOS, along with CIB/EIB what's the point? And if the other MOS' went out for this award are they going to be allowed to wear it unlike the rules with the EIB now? I think we have MANY "Master Grunts" now who are extremely proficient in their MOS and don't need another piece of "bling" to prove it.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 17 at 2015 2:47 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 14:47:25 -0400

Sounds like a very reasonable idea SSG Private RallyPoint Member. What are the proposed requirements for the MIB?

Response by SSG Leo Bell made Oct 17 at 2015 3:02 PM

SSG Leo Bell — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 15:02:42 -0400

I think this would be a good idea. It would be nice if they combined the two together to make the MIB. The points should be higher for having it.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 3:36 PM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 15:36:55 -0400

I think it is a great idea. Another item for Marines to say "what is that thing?'. I guess that it why on our service or dress uniforms we don't even wear a name tag, individuals don't matter, it is all about the team.

Response by SSG Todd Lysfjord made Oct 17 at 2015 5:13 PM

SSG Todd Lysfjord — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 17:13:16 -0400

Just what we need...one more badge...

Response by SSG Robert Webster made Oct 17 at 2015 7:56 PM

SSG Robert Webster — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 19:56:55 -0400

We do not need another badge. What the military and specifically the Army should do, is to bring back Pro (Proficiency) Pay. The test was basically the same as the SQT, and if you scored a certain percentage, you were authorized the pay. The test had to be taken each year; if you failed or did not make the cut off score, you lost the pay until the next year when you tested again.

Response by SFC Terry Fortune made Oct 17 at 2015 8:03 PM

SFC Terry Fortune — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 20:03:41 -0400

To me the Army already as one a CIB.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 8:16 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 20:16:46 -0400

How many more infantry specific things are needed?

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Oct 17 at 2015 8:33 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 20:33:05 -0400

It's already there, EIB, CIB. DEAL WITH IT.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 10:31 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 22:31:21 -0400

On that same token, should there be a Master Medic Badge?

Response by SFC Ron Chelsy made Oct 18 at 2015 1:22 AM

SFC Ron Chelsy — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 01:22:16 -0400

Instead of trying to develop new badges to wear why not bring back the SQT? Who remembers taking these every year a high SQT in your record was all anyone needed to talk to prove they were the best

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2015 9:41 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 09:41:07 -0400

I'm not sure what classes to which you refer, but badges are classified by groups. I would encourage you to review the five groups of badges and revise your stated rankings.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2015 1:07 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 13:07:58 -0400

Let's see, if you're an expert, are you better than a master or if you're a master are you better than an expert. Let's debate that for awhile. However, if you have a CIB, we all know what you are!! Leave it alone, let the expert be the expert. The consequences of earning a CIB can be dangerous enough. Don't try to downgrade it by saying, " the EIB and CIB are in the same class." Shame on you! Remember this, "You have never lived until you have almost died, for those that have fought for it, life has a special flavor the protected will never know." De Oppresso Liber.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2015 10:08 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 10:08:22 -0400

Wow... is that where we are going? So people can have more bling? I think this is ridiculous, and what about tradition instead of... nevermind, todays army is all about medals and pats on the back. I wish it was more about the pride and the sacrifice for the country.

Response by SFC Thomas Howes made Oct 19 at 2015 12:53 PM

SFC Thomas Howes — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 12:53:51 -0400

If you have a CIB why have the EIB they are the same point system right and you can only wear one if AR 670-1 has changed I have been retired now for some time

Response by SGT Chip Hutchings made Oct 19 at 2015 12:57 PM

SGT Chip Hutchings — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 12:57:39 -0400

It has been more then 20 years since I earned my EIB while serving with the 82nd. Many of the soldiers that I served with had taken part in Panama and the first gulf war and had earned their CIB. Many of the soldiers did not see the point of the EIB considering they wore their CIB on their uniform. I do think if there was a way that they could display a CIB and EIB as a master infantryman badge that it would be worthwhile.

Response by SSG Zebedee Johnson made Oct 19 at 2015 7:13 PM

SSG Zebedee Johnson — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 19:13:19 -0400

What would be the criteria for the MIB

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2015 8:37 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 08:37:17 -0400

SGT Szczakowski,
I like the Idea of the MIB badge as well. At one time, the Army was thinking about have the CIB (Combat Infantryman's Badge) to represent the Soldiers that had both their EIB and CIB like myself. Don't know what happend to that, oh yeah they thought it would be great to make a master Astronaut badge and Instructor Badges; instead of following though with the Original plan. Below is what the plan would have looked like.

Response by MSG Darrell Taylor made Oct 21 at 2015 6:36 AM

MSG Darrell Taylor — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 06:36:04 -0400

Response by SSG Nick Tramontano made Oct 21 at 2015 5:54 PM

SSG Nick Tramontano — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 17:54:31 -0400

I think the EIB should be left alone. It in itself represents the degree of skill and proficiency.

Response by SSG Delanda Hunt made Oct 23 at 2015 10:41 PM

SSG Delanda Hunt — Fri, 23 Oct 2015 22:41:27 -0400

Really! stop the madness. How about some hard core training, but now that you will have Infantrywoman you can forget about that. Standards will be even more lower. Grandma just finished Ranger School.

Response by SFC Rick H made Oct 25 at 2015 1:50 PM

SFC Rick H — Sun, 25 Oct 2015 13:50:36 -0400

I remember when I went through " Light Fighter " school at Fort Ord in California in the early 80s. After we graduated and dragged our tired butts home, we were later informed we would be authorized to wear a newly designed patch- some where on our uniforms in which portrayed and hour glass with the word Light on top and fighter at the bottom- then I heard about a tab which would come out too. In the end, LOL., nothing came out. Heard there were some battle among others- ie SF., Rangers etc. who really did not like that idea. That being said; we already have the EIB and CIB so why on earth to we need to make life more complicated? I think we look really great now and should be proud of what we have!

Response by SSG Ronald White made Oct 30 at 2015 1:54 PM

SSG Ronald White — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 13:54:17 -0400

i dunno there Ssg....? how would you deliniate the award, what does someone have to do to earn it? I mean Expert Infantry badge, then X number of combat tours? Isnt there already something in place to distinguish the times someone engaged in seperate combat tours with differnt stars and wreaths? Master and Expert are just symantecs but I understand the tours of duty are real and the hardship of combat is real.... EFMB, CMB now MMB? you can't master combat or being a medic but you can be an expert... when you master something, to me, it means you control it; in which case you dont control the combat environment. When you are an expert, again to me, it means you are knowledgeable and experienced in the field to which in combat that knowledge and experience allows you to overcome the battlefield environment that you do not control... I might be talking out of my 6 points of contact here but I view the two word differently amd honestly I prefer the EIB and CIB.... one garrison and the other Combat same with the Medic device..adding another is just more fluff and I think the ones we have are prestigious enough for this retired dawg to buy you dinner and say that you are a bad ass.... good enough for me but if you guys need more distinction then I'll support it! Whooooah!!!

Response by SSG Don Maggart made Nov 12 at 2015 10:57 PM

SSG Don Maggart — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 22:57:32 -0500

Sir the CIB is awarded to show up and fire your weapon the EIB is a test of Knowledge Skills and Ability...

Response by SGT Jaime Alaniz made Nov 17 at 2015 10:02 AM

SGT Jaime Alaniz — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 10:02:28 -0500

The combat badges have a higher rating in my opinion than the other badges. Both required the same three key elements to earn (BST) but the combat ones ALREADY have a distinction that no word can describe them.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2015 7:54 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Dec 2015 19:54:18 -0500

There are discussions for master or expert everything (ALL CMFs) badges. They would not necessarily be a bad idea, I would like to see the details first. Not sure how much traction this has gained either. Many new initiatives get proposed, doesn't mean it will happen..... There are supposed to be MOS specific PT tests coming out too, maybe, maybe not, I can tell you the Army has been discussing a revamped PT test for literally decades.......its bound to actually happen one of these days....perhaps sooner rather than later.

Response by SFC Pete Kain made Dec 26 at 2015 8:09 PM

SFC Pete Kain — Sat, 26 Dec 2015 20:09:49 -0500

TEE HEE

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2016 11:00 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Feb 2016 11:00:56 -0500

I look at it as a test. It's not easy, if it was everybody would have one. I don't see a problem with it. You have to do what you have to do to stand out, if there's a test take it and pass it. Make your file look as good as humanly possible.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2016 9:40 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 Aug 2016 09:40:49 -0400

The simple fact is that you have more than a few Infantrymen that got their CIB and don't have their EIB. They don't want it and don't try to get it. That attitude translates to junior Soldiers in their organization. The MIB would distinguish those that have been awarded both. I don't really see what the problem is. I'm seeing an awful lot of negative feedback from personnel that it wouldn't apply to anyway.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2016 6:19 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Aug 2016 18:19:20 -0400

This is a artist rendition of the proposed Master Infantry Badge which is a combination of the CIB and EIB. There is also a subdued one for ACU/OCP wear but I couldn't find the image.

As for the the concept of an EMB and CMB being combined into something similar I guess... Master Medic Badge or something to that effect. I'm fine with that as I am fine with an MIB.

All that being said I have no stake in either as a 27D.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Aug 12 at 2016 9:54 PM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Fri, 12 Aug 2016 21:54:09 -0400

I stopped wearing my EIB in 2003,when I earned my CIB. A badge to show we've earned both is pretty cool, I guess.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2016 2:56 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 02:56:13 -0400

Because Infantrymen really need one more piece of baby blue bling to remind us how full of themselves they are?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2016 11:37 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Sep 2016 11:37:18 -0400

Personally I feel the design, creation, and implementation of a new badge (Master Infantryman or Master Field Medical) is costly and time consuming. I think a change to the AR and DA Pam 670-1s should allow us to wear what we earned, limiting to 3 above the ribbons but not limiting the numbers from the groups. Put combat before the skill tested badges, and make the order of precedence by creation (CIB, CFMB, CAB, EIB, EFMB). Too easy.

Response by PV2 Charles Titus made Sep 22 at 2016 10:36 AM

PV2 Charles Titus — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 10:36:10 -0400

what does a master infantry badge look like

Response by SSG John Culin made Oct 11 at 2016 4:58 PM

SSG John Culin — Tue, 11 Oct 2016 16:58:33 -0400

During my day, there was talk about having a Gold Badge. For those of us who had both the EIB and the CIB. It was a CIB, but with a Gold Kentucky rifle instead of the silver one.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2018 11:16 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 11:16:10 -0400

From my understanding, the MIB had already been proposed. It’s simply an adaptation of the 5th award of the CIB, where the rifle and wreath are gold, rather than silver.

The purpose is positive, as it distinguishes those individuals who have earned both the CIB and EIB, by allowing them to wear a badge denoting the accomplishment of both. Honestly, the CIB was easy to get, while the EIB tested my skills. Having earned both, it would be great to be recognized as a recipient of both, rather than just the CIB, as that is the badge worn and perceived.

Recently, there has been the beginnings of implementation of Expert Badges for other CMF’s, and honestly, should a non Infantry individual earn their respective Expert Badge as well as a CAB, there should be a Master Badge for them as well.
The pride of achievement and service has declined in the recent years of service and accolades such as this could possibly improve that spirit d’corps.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Aug 31 at 2020 5:51 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 05:51:09 -0400

The requirements needed to earn the EIB, and the sacrifices for the CIB are staunch enough. The Master (somewhat) already exists. Who is th e trainer of the Soldier-the squad leader, who is selected at DA level for SFC-Platoon Sergeant, there is your Master. Anyway, the Army has enough badges and acutremants for its records and uniform.

Response by SPC David C. made Jun 30 at 2023 12:39 AM

SPC David C. — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 00:39:45 -0400

As a Marine who switched over to the army, I gotta tell ya I never understood the obsession with badges and patches. No matter where you go, or what unit you're assigned to, someone is going to look down on you because you don't have this badge or that patch on whatever shoulder. Doesn't matter that you may be the hardest bastard in the unit. Their badge is "better" than yours. For example, I get the CIB, but the EIB? That shouldn't be a special badge, that should be the infantry standard, not something special. The tabbed positions and a few other badges like jump wings and the CIB/ Combat medic badge I understand, most of the rest just seems like overkill. To each their own though I guess.

Response by SGT Ruben Lozada made Jul 10 at 2023 3:23 PM

SGT Ruben Lozada — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 15:23:22 -0400

Good afternoon SSG Private RallyPoint Member. Excellent post. Thank You for sharing this. I don't think this is a good concept. Being that thereis already an EIB and CIB that exist. I don't feel the 11Bravo community needs to worry about another badge. One excellent response that I've seen posted was to bring back the SQT thing. I've heard about it, but haven't actually seen it.

Response by SFC William Hannon made Jul 12 at 2023 9:43 PM

SFC William Hannon — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 21:43:46 -0400

Sounds a little ridiculous to me.

Response by LTC David Thompson made Jul 16 at 2023 3:51 PM

LTC David Thompson — Sun, 16 Jul 2023 15:51:34 -0400

I thought the Master Infantry Badge was the Ranger Tab.

Response by SPC Sonny Jarrell made Jul 16 at 2023 7:43 PM

SPC Sonny Jarrell — Sun, 16 Jul 2023 19:43:08 -0400

I think back in the day it was called Expert Infantry Badge. Earned it in 1982, fuck off, fucktard leg

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made Jul 17 at 2023 2:54 PM

SGT Juan Robledo — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 14:54:46 -0400

Why not, if you earned it, wear it

Response by 1SG Rick Seekman made Jul 17 at 2023 7:10 PM

1SG Rick Seekman — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 19:10:17 -0400

yea, another medal, you get one, you get on, and you get one!
when is enough, enough?

Response by CMSgt Donald ONeill made Jul 18 at 2023 1:08 PM

CMSgt Donald ONeill — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 13:08:52 -0400

Why the need when your in a war and get awarded a CIB then if another a star is added to your metal. I was in four wars but only one as a Green Beret and earned a CIB while the other three with the Air National Guard . The CIB is very special to me along with my Air Metal with "V" .

Response by LTC Pete Moore made Jul 19 at 2023 11:24 AM

LTC Pete Moore — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 11:24:02 -0400

no need.

Response by CPT Robert Swain made Jul 19 at 2023 2:37 PM

CPT Robert Swain — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 14:37:42 -0400

We don't need am MIB!
For award of the CIB a Soldier must meet the following three requirements: (1) Be an infantryman satisfactorily performing infantry duties. (2) Assigned to an infantry unit during such time as the unit is engaged in active ground combat. (3) Actively participate in such ground combat.
I was an Infantry officer in command of an infantry platoon in Vietnam for 30 minutes after being shot down and the PLT LDR becam incapable of making a decision. Shot by a machine gun three times, and given a Silver Star for my actions that day. I was recommeded 4 times for the CIB but did not get it as I was not ASSIGNED to an Infantry unit.
I do have the EIB for which only 15% of people taking the test. get!

Response by SSG Ken Potts made Jul 19 at 2023 11:03 PM

SSG Ken Potts — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 23:03:03 -0400

I think you're wrong when you say the badges are overrated. Most medics receive a CMB posthumously.

Response by SFC Eric Bates made Jul 31 at 2023 2:25 PM

SFC Eric Bates — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 14:25:02 -0400

I don't give my input often, but this definitely caught my attention. To start, I had never heard about the Master Infantryman Badge, so I Googled it and found an article: https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2016/08/12/with-support-of-army-grunts-nco-moves-forward-with-combined-cib-and-eib-badge/. The article was from 2016, so I'm guessing this is dead in the water.

I will try and keep my thoughts brief, but I like the idea. I agree the CIB is over awarded, and I cannot stand how everyone gets a participation medal now a days. However, when I earned my EIB; it was no joke. It was weeks of train up, and we had very strict evaluators. My unit, which was pretty squared away, tested the entire battalion. I was one of only 5 dudes in my platoon of 45 that earned it, and that included my team and squad leaders that were absolute infantry studs, but they no-go'd too many stations. It was more rare in my unit for someone to have an EIB than a CIB.

Because of that, I was more proud of my EIB than my CIB (and my CIB was no joke either). I always felt I appreciated my EIB more because it seemed like it was more unique, especially after 9/11. I once wore my EIB on my Class A's to a unit holiday ball and I had a CSM (who I didn't really respect, but he was still my CSM) sternly advise that I needed to check the AR because I was not allowed to have a combat patch and EIB on the same uniform so and I needed to correct it ASAP. I disagreed with him, but went with the CIB because I wanted to keep the combat scroll. I never went and researched it any further, but I still believe I had the choice.

Anyway, long story short. I like the idea that you can show you earned both. If you really didn't "earn" either, then oh well; that's no different from what we have now. You see guys that have combat jump wings, so why not have something that shows both EIB and CIB. I would have appreciated that.

With support of Army grunts, NCO moves forward with combined CIB and EIB badge

Sgt. Robert Flak is putting together the required paperwork to request the creation of a Master Infantry Badge.

Response by SPC Curtis Cobb made Aug 12 at 2023 3:23 AM

SPC Curtis Cobb — Sat, 12 Aug 2023 03:23:22 -0400

I earned my EIB (on my second attempt), but I've never heard of the MIB; if s such an award existed it had to have been decades ago, and therefore long before my time.

Response by SGT Jerry Garner made Aug 17 at 2023 6:53 PM

SGT Jerry Garner — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 18:53:16 -0400

The CIB receiver has my respect because of their willingness to risk life and limb for country. The EIB however is a tested knowledge of abilities. I would never wear a CIB instead of the EIB but I do believe you could have more confidence in a soldiers ability with the EIB. That being said an MIB sounds like it would show professionalism better than the EIB. So being an old Olive Drab uniform wearer, and seeing todays Army a little more motivation to prove oneself sounds like a no fail opportunity as long as that not just given away.

Response by SGT Jim Wiseman made Aug 22 at 2023 9:11 PM

SGT Jim Wiseman — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 21:11:18 -0400

SFC Jason Boyd covered this pretty well! I myself was awarded a CIB in an action where our vehicle was fired upon and our one of our patrol vehicles' gunners fired back. I do consider though that when I was in an RPG attack that took a chunk of one of my feet the actual event for which I earned my CIB, as well as a Purple Heart.
I feel the EIB should be awarded to those who can demonstrate the required skills and meet the qualifications. I don't like any badge protecting that is known to go on. I wish I had earned my EIB while I was in. In contravention of the regs, had I earned both, I would have worn the EIB on the ACU's due to the fact that the CIB had been awarded as if it were Halloween candy to be handed out. The CIB being considered the "higher award," is supposed to be worn if awarded to an individual.
Keep in mind... the EIB can be awarded to non-Infantry personnel, but is not to be worn on any uniform.
Caveat: If anyone can dispute or correct anything I've put out here, I welcome constructive criticism.

Response by Liz Hodges Flores made Aug 23 at 2023 9:50 PM

Liz Hodges Flores — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 21:50:33 -0400

ALWAYS

Response by PO2 Timothy Lane made Aug 24 at 2023 10:52 PM

PO2 Timothy Lane — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 22:52:14 -0400

There should be a advance combat metal ribbon. But the problem is the military is playing this lets make everyone happen and give awards out like water. The Metals and ribbons should be given as the award are written. In my thinking as a vet tje advance combat metal ribbon should help someone advance. They have the combat experience and that is what the Army does. But trying please all is hurting the miliatary. Ask the Military top brass there at fault for allowing it to happen.

Response by SFC Bob Kreidler made Aug 25 at 2023 11:39 AM

SFC Bob Kreidler — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 11:39:13 -0400

If what read here is the new army no one could earn it because they couldn't do it I got mine out of over 900 going for it 15 got it

Response by SFC William Linnell made Aug 25 at 2023 1:42 PM

SFC William Linnell — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 13:42:05 -0400

Doesn't surprise me. It seems that the Army caters to the Infantry mafia. They have badges for everything. I too have seen the misuse of the CIB during Desert Storm. Our mortar team was in the rear of back towards the mechanics. Ground war ended and they all were pinned with the CIB. They never took fire or firing at the enemy. I haven't ran across anything on this topic. The EIB and CIB is right with the CIB having Stars added for multiple wars. CIB for Desert Storm then a star for being back for Iraq Enduring Freedom or Afghanistan.
I feel....no that's not....deep in my soul, the Armor Branch, Scouts, Combat Engineers and maybe Artillery being combat arms, shout have their own Excellence In and Combat Badge. Armor since the inception of Tanks, have proven their combat effectiveness in multiple wars. WWII being the greatest display of Shoot, Move and Engage the Enemy. Vietnam saw the highest casualty rate of Armor crewmen. 82nd even have tankers for combat readiness when they deployed. The Cold War in Germany, tankers showed great effect in combat training to take on the USSR if they decided to be froggy. Desert Storm, the 20 year war in Iraq and Afghanistan. Tankers ended up being door kickers, operating outside their MOS. Tankers have been the deciding factor in multiple wars and numerous battles.
The Armor branch, 19K & 19D, has had their own Combat Armor Badge approved by Congress but....Armor senior officers continuously shoot it down for wear bc it will cheapen the CIB and the Infantry Mafia won't allow it. Armor has a program for tankers called the Excellence in Armor program but higher doesn't make it a priority or something of great value. Armor has a Tank Commander specialty test, TCC (Tank Commander Course). And again, Armor Branch Commanders don't make any of this a high recognition achievement for Armor crew members. All this should be as much of a high recognition as the Infantry EIB and other skills. Another thankless special identifier is the Armor and Bradley Master Gunner Course. They should be awarded with that skill identifier like the Drill Sergeant badge, recruiting badge.
Last one. I promise. The Combat Adviser mission. Those that went thru the course then deployed to either Iraq or Afghanistan, then as small teams, trained and conducted operations with either of the National Armies, National Police or Border Patrol, should have approved to wear a Combat Adviser tab. They were operating like the SF ODA teams usually do, Training /mentoring/instructing, to be able to conduct combat operations on their own. And a lot of those teams took fire and returned it. They had mortars, rockets and heavy machine guns, RPGs, IEDs and VBIDs fire at them.
EHHhhh.....what do I know? I'm just a retired old worn out war horse who doesn't have a a say in matters. TANKERS RULE!!! :)

Response by PO1 Robert Ryan made Aug 26 at 2023 10:36 AM

PO1 Robert Ryan — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 10:36:31 -0400

I only knew of the EIB (required testing ) and the CIB awarded for 11 Series MOS for being in an infantry unit 30 days in a combat zone. April 1969 I was awarded mine for B 1/22 Infantry 4th ID . I have met new soldiers wearing a CAB (Combat Actions Badge ). These soldiers must have seen combat action but are not 11 series MOS.

Response by SSG Jeff Jones made Aug 27 at 2023 12:23 PM

SSG Jeff Jones — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 12:23:09 -0400

Well (here's the old guy speak), back in my day... I sound like my dad... the EFMB was tough as you-know-what to get. When i finally got mine (2nd try), I was happy... tired, but happy. A month later, I was in Grenada (OUF), attached to 2nd Bn 75th Ranger Regiment, when I returned to garrison, I got my CMB. Nothing in the sense of awards,badges,etc... should be easy to attain.
My son's unit, at Ft. Cavazos (Hood) is doing EIB testing as I post this and he said that is the toughest thing he's had to do since RASP.
As I said earlier, no badge should be easy to get.
Getting tabbed and, eventually, scrolled, was the hardest thing I ever did... apart from qualifying for the CMB.
I do agree with the SFC, the Master Infantry Badge is overkill (pardon the term).
RLTW!

Response by SSG Jeff Jones made Aug 27 at 2023 12:26 PM

SSG Jeff Jones — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 12:26:57 -0400

Response by LCpl Shawn Carter made Aug 28 at 2023 2:24 PM

LCpl Shawn Carter — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 14:24:52 -0400

does the Army really need another participation trophy? You all are so concerned with chest glitter, its almost infantile.

Response by SPC Jacob Swindell made Aug 31 at 2023 8:48 AM

SPC Jacob Swindell — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 08:48:42 -0400

I don't get paid to think. But this is as fucked just as switching from dress greens to dress blues. It comes down to not letting people feeling get hurt or what not. The Army need to stop thinking about people's feeling and do your job! All this is going to do is water down accomplishments. Think of all that went before you. IE WW1, WW2 etc. Most of the men that got it did not boast, some might have never wanted or did what they need to do or go though. But they did it for their families and their country. Stop thinking about what if I never get a CIB. Maybe your not ready mentally for one. Maybe it's not in God's plan for you to see a war. Maybe you need to feel blessed not to be in a situation to receive such a reward. You can make assumptions all day long. But know this. Most everyone that I know of including me would do it again in a heart beat.

Response by CPL Galen Beesley made Sep 29 at 2023 1:45 AM

CPL Galen Beesley — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 01:45:56 -0400

I think we need to re-evaluate the combat badges given because when I was in Iraq, I was directly behind a truck carrying a piece of engineer equipment. Granted the trailer took the brunt of the explosion but the only one who got the badge was the officer at the front and we were closer to the end of the convoy. Also, when I got knocked down in a mortar attack where the mortars landed on one side of the wall we had built and I was on the other still no combat badge, so I agree with comments that this is ridiculous.

Response by SGM Ronald Cheatom made Nov 4 at 2023 3:44 PM

SGM Ronald Cheatom — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 15:44:45 -0400

A long time ago, a wise old infantry soldier once said something that made a lot of sense thwn and now. The EIB is the badge you get for knowing your shit according to whomever wrote the books on being in the infantry. The CIB is a badge you get for showing you know your shit, and living to tell about it after really applying those infantry skills in the "real" world. We don't need no MIB. Both say enough.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2023 1:21 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 01:21:59 -0500

I always thought the training for achieving these types of badges were flawed. I tried to get mine for the first time in 1987 in Ft Stewart Ga. Back then it was conducted on training lanes on post. The process was simple, you train with your unit and wait on your opportunity. Your given a score sheet and you proceed from station to station trying to achieve as many GO's as possible. If got more than one NO GO, I think, you failed. Throughout the training day we would see NCOs get GOs at stations that they CLEARLY FAILED. Some would just walk up and hand the sheet off to their buddies working the lanes for a FREE GO. This was my first and only time trying for my EIB.

I think that the EIB process and other courses like it should be set up at a military school away from your home base, so that EIB lane instructors can't hook up their buddies. If the process has changed since i went through. Hand Clap to the US Army!!!