Why not allow former Infantrymen (11B's) to wear the blue Infantry cord?

2015-09-09T01:45:07-04:00

I went to basic, infantry and airborne school at Ft. Benning and served as an infantryman for four years on active duty, why not let guys like me wear the blue infantry cord if we change MOS's? We earned it. I'm not talking about any other infantry accoutrements like the blue discs or crossed rifles, just the cord. I suppose I'm viewing this similarly to earning a badge or a tab.

This is a "what if" discussion - I know what they regs say. The post is meant to stimulate discussion and opinions.

Response by Cpl James Waycasie made Sep 9 at 2015 1:59 AM

2015-09-09T01:59:12-04:00

I guess they would consider it out of uniform code. I know the Marines who went to jump school were allowed to maintain and wear Jump boots if they changed M.O.S.'s or if they couldn't they did anyway.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2015 4:06 AM

2015-09-09T04:06:48-04:00

Special Forces Weapons Sergeants (heavy and light), originally held 11 series MOSs before they became a separate branch in the early 1980's were not allowed to wear the blue cord. The decision was made in direct acknowledgement of the sacrifice of the Infantry. Only those who are Infantry, serving in an Infantry billet, can wear the blue cord.

Even today, as closely tied as the MOS 18B is to 11B and 11C, the blue cord is reserved only for the Infantry. They do after all, still suffer the brunt of warfare, no matter how many artilleryman or MPs have done "infantry patrols".

On a more direct note, as a CW4, how long ago was it that you were an Infantryman? Do you really think that what you have been doing for the last 15-20 years (because there is no warrant position in the Infantry) merits the blue cord? Not an insulting question, just trying to see your point of view. You obviously put the blue cord on a high pedestal. Do you think that the job you do now merits the recognition that the blue cord was originally designed for, or do you just miss the flair?

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2015 7:20 AM

2015-09-09T07:20:21-04:00

I agree. I also don't understand why we had to give up the Rising Eagle and go to branch insignia, and now we are a cohort not a corp. I feel we have lost our way and its only going to get worse. I keep seeing threads on milsuite talk about how Warrants want to be in line with the O ranks, this bothers me a lot, I have been around a lot of old school Warrants that wore the Rising Eagle and they are very upset about the direction of the Warrant Officer Corps (Cohort). My apology's if it seems I went off base but I think it all falls inline with how the Army is going to a more business model

Response by SGT Scott Bell made Sep 9 at 2015 7:49 AM

2015-09-09T07:49:18-04:00

you not fnafantremen

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Sep 9 at 2015 9:55 AM

2015-09-09T09:55:52-04:00

Why not?
And I think anyone that made it though jump school should wear the bloused boots and beret to the rest of their lives!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2015 11:37 AM

2015-09-09T11:37:38-04:00

I feel the same way CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) - but I am leaving the Army, and those few times when I will ever wear a dress uniform again, I will wear the cord. Because I earned it.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Sep 9 at 2015 2:51 PM

2015-09-09T14:51:43-04:00

I remember when Berets 1st came out and all other Mos's were crying that they wanted one too. I was 11B, 11M, cross trained as a 11C and 45B/91F, but never ever even bothered with asking if I could retain items from those Mos's.If AR states a person can wear them then they should be able to, if not why worry about it?be proud of what you do wear. I was talking to a person not too long ago who wants to go out and buy all these ribbons that are commemorative ribbons since they are worn below the Active duty ribbons just to make him look more "awarded".I just rolled my eyes and asked why???

Response by SFC Michael Garner made Sep 9 at 2015 6:05 PM

2015-09-09T18:05:12-04:00

What pert of former don't you understand

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 12:43 PM

2016-06-20T12:43:37-04:00

You can from what's stated in Ar670 28-1 b. The insignia worn by military personnel designates grade, branch, organization, duty assignments, and prior Army service.

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Jun 20 at 2016 1:42 PM

2016-06-20T13:42:53-04:00

Without digging into regs, It is authorized if your primary MOS is 11 series, period. Once you re-classify to another MOS and it becomes your primary and you are no longer managed under the 11 CMF proponent. In other words, it is not a permanent award. The Expert Infantryman's Badge, however, is, which was my link to the "old world" after I had to give up the blue cord and discs.

Response by LTC Marlen Ramirez made Aug 5 at 2016 4:31 PM

2016-08-05T16:31:44-04:00

A SM should retain wear of the blue cord throughout his/her career, regardless of changing MOS/units, if the SM at one time or another in the military completed the 11-series MOS-producing training, or equivalent from other service, and served a minimum of one peace-time or war-time tour in an AD infantry unit, unless properly released earlier, but not less than 1-year unless injured in peace-time or war-time and subsequently released from 11-series, or served in a NG/RC infantry unit for an equivalent increased duration to adjust to the AD tour length requirement. SMs with combined prior 11-series training and service should be recognized for their prior Infantry accomplishment that is not easily displayed on the uniform when SMs transition to another branch of the Army. There is no better way to display without medals a SMs past and/or present Infantry training and service hardship than to allow SMs to continue to wear the Infantry blue cord. Once an Infantryman, always an Infantryman!!! Change the regulation.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2016 11:45 AM

2016-08-06T11:45:15-04:00

I switched to EOD after a brief stint as an airborne infantryman. I have fond memories of being given my blue cord at our 'Turning Blue' ceremony, and was a little let down when I had to give it up when I switched MOSs, but the blue cord, contrary to popular belief, not an award. It is an identifier, just as are the blue disks... it denotes an association to a particular group within the military, much like a distinctive unit insignia. It is not awarded to an individual like a medal, and therefore if the Soldier is not serving in an 11 or 18-series MOS, they should not wear it because they are no longer associated with those jobs.

Response by SPC John Decker made Apr 13 at 2017 7:04 PM

2017-04-13T19:04:47-04:00

I was a medic. Other than the collar tab, there was no other indicator that went with the MOS (91B). If I had chosen to change my MOS, I would wear that designator. Why does any MOS have a separate designator?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2017 8:43 PM

2017-04-13T20:43:17-04:00

There has been 2 wars over the last 15.5 years, and if you weren't awarded a CIB, you should have had a chance to earn an EIB. That's your proof you were Infantry. Asking to wear a non permanent uniform item is futile.

Response by CPT Joshua Dumont made Apr 13 at 2017 10:55 PM

2017-04-13T22:55:57-04:00

Everyone knows it is not an individual award. Just like jump boots, berets and ovals. Don't we have enough "i'm special" stuff? It seems fitting to proudly wear the accouterments of your current profession and leave the infantry decoration for the infantry branch.

Response by SGT Chester Beedle made May 12 at 2017 2:09 AM

2017-05-12T02:09:05-04:00

So can retirees wear the cord and disks on blues (or greens if they were still authorized at time of retirement... I don't know the wear out date)? Since a retiree is no longer in an infantry unit.
No, I don't think I'll be putting on blues anytime soon, but in that rare occurrence if someone wants me to attend a military funeral or wedding maybe.

Response by SFC Ricky Fraley made Aug 7 at 2017 10:59 AM

2017-08-07T10:59:04-04:00

Because to wear it you must be in a rifle infantry unit. You are no longer in a infantry unit so you do get the privilege to wear it. If you wanted to wear it why you leave the Infantry?

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Aug 8 at 2017 9:12 PM

2017-08-08T21:12:38-04:00

form·er
adjective
1.
having previously filled a particular role or been a particular thing.

Specifically Your answer is in the question you posted.

If you are asking as a "I wish it were so even though its not"
Id say, no to that as well.... It is a coveted identifier for those that service in the position. No longer serving, no longer should be identified as such.
I know the blue cord is "Earned" and that can never be taken away from you... but the physical identifications of blue disks and the cord, well that is for who you are, not who you were.

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Aug 9 at 2017 9:50 AM

2017-08-09T09:50:34-04:00

Clearly, this thread has gone over a lot of respondent's heads or they didn't really read what I said: This was a "what if?" thing - I know full well the regs are not going to change. Some people have taken this thread way too seriously.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2017 1:52 PM

2017-08-09T13:52:16-04:00

The Blue cord I always thought can be like a qualification badge worn to represent ones previous accomplishment and brotherhood an infantryman shares with his fellow infantry as well as for those who had once served as an infantryman should be allowed to wear it they earned it.

Response by 1SG Dennis Hicks made Aug 9 at 2017 8:55 PM

2017-08-09T20:55:03-04:00

The question has been answered, regulations pertaining to the reason were provided and a definition was also provided. My cord sits on my Khakis in the atic. If someone really wants to wear their cord then there is a procedure and process for changes listed in the regs to do so. While I would have loved to wear mine I also understand the reasons why I couldn't. To be honest I was much more busy doing my job than worrying about my bling.

Response by SFC Robert White made Sep 23 at 2017 12:30 PM

2017-09-23T12:30:59-04:00

sounds like there are a lot of butt hurt about removing them cord from your dress uniform. 1981 -1988 I wore my cord with pride. it now hangs on my bedroom wall. I knew I would have to remove my cord when I changed PMOS. for many years it hung from my review mirror
what ever happened to heritage, history, customs. Y'ALL need to stop being special snowflakes. in the words of my drill Sgt from 1980. suckit up buttercup. get over yourselves and yes I did retire with 11B40 as my secondary MOS. so I know prestige that goes with them cord. and once infantry always infantry.

Response by SFC David Holmes made Dec 8 at 2017 2:24 PM

2017-12-08T14:24:00-05:00

The blue infantry chord is not an award or skill badge that you can take with you when you leave the infantry. It stays with the infantry where it belongs. The high Standards within those infantry units will NEVER allow the chord to be discredited. I would never want to see the chord leave it's proper place. If you want to wear it than stay in the infantry.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2017 10:44 AM

2017-12-11T10:44:54-05:00

I believe the intent of the post was missed by a some of the respondents, particularly after reading a number of the comments here.

I understand what the regulation (AR 670-1 para 19-30) says, just as the original poster indicated in his description.

In my opinion, the blue cord should be an individual award upon being awarded the MOS. The blue discs should be the determining factor to whether or not an infantryman is actively serving is said roll. At least we have been given the opportunity to retain our RDIs for units we have served with without having to request said affiliation anymore.

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Dec 11 at 2017 11:34 AM

2017-12-11T11:34:48-05:00

Some of you keep missing this part: "This is a "what if" discussion - I know what they regs say. The post is meant to stimulate discussion and opinions."

Having said that - If I go to Ranger school, SF school, Airborne, Air Assault, etc., I get a tab or a badge. I completed Infantry school like MANY others - what is the harm in awarding the blue cord permanently? AGAIN, I know what the regulations say - forget the regulations for a moment.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2017 12:24 PM

2017-12-11T12:24:21-05:00

I personally think they (including myself) should. When the cord is awarded after completing infantry training, I don't think it's thought of as a temporary item by anyone receiving it. Given the *justifiable* added prestige given to the infantry MOS's (11A/B/C), you would think there would be something to identify a former infantryman who is still qualified as one but is no longer actively serving in the billet (for whatever reason, I know several guys that were forced to switch MOS's from infantry after over a decade simply because of medical reasons, but not enough to force them out completely). In any case, the cord could acknowledge that history and sacrifice that is unique to the infantry. Instead, like any other MOS, the only way to tell the person was prior infantry (unless they have a CIB or EIB) is to view their records.

I don't know. Just my two cents, but I agree that I see absolutely no harm in letting Soldiers who have earned the blue cord, and served a significant time in an infantry MOS to be able to wear it on their dress uniform for the remainder of their career regardless of the billet they are currently serving in.

Response by CSM Eric Biggs made Dec 12 at 2017 4:26 AM

2017-12-12T04:26:33-05:00

Chief, I have two schools of thought on this.
First I think it's interesting how only the Infantry is authorized to wear their assigned color cord. Also we are the only MOS who have/are allowed to wear disks. That being said aren't the blue cord and blue disks redundant? Each one can only be worn on the dress uniform and only when Infantry is your primary MOS.
Here is a second way I look at this. Do I want some former Infantryman acting like or trying to look like he is still Infantry when he has not done that job in a few years? I have seen former Infantrymen who just 2 years ago were turning in 13 min 2 miles and knocking out Battle Drill 1A like it was nothing. Now they look like a lard ass and might pass the APFT. Let alone they couldn't explain to someone how to conduct 1A if their life depended on it.
I don't want the second guy even looking like he ever had anything to do with the Infantry. Granted this is also the guy who never earned his EIB either, which is a good thing.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Dec 12 at 2017 5:52 PM

2017-12-12T17:52:11-05:00

If you desperately feel the need to have people you used to be Infantry, then earn an EIB so you can keep it with you before you reclass. Other than that, being prior infantry just means you have a portion of your career in which you weren't working your current career field, meaning your experience is probably less than your non prior infantry peer... Is it really enjoyable to have to explain away every knowledge shortfall with "oh, sorry, I used to be xxyx"? Worry about what your doing NOW.

Response by SGT Joseph Soares made Jan 19 at 2018 9:27 AM

2018-01-19T09:27:56-05:00

totally agree

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Jan 19 at 2018 9:48 AM

2018-01-19T09:48:52-05:00

I am with the majority of us here, just say no, and put it away, hang it on your "I love me wall."

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2018 1:07 PM

2018-01-19T13:07:45-05:00

CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) would you let paratroopers keep their berets and boots if they move to a non-airborne unit? How about spurs and "special hats"? I say no if you are not with the unit you do not wear the stuff specific to the unit/MOS.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Feb 4 at 2018 8:03 PM

2018-02-04T20:03:52-05:00

For the same reason I no longer wear an Eagle, Globe and Anchor on my uniform.

Response by SPC Tom Smith made Apr 18 at 2018 9:22 AM

2018-04-18T09:22:25-04:00

I was in the same situation. My first MOS was 11B then re-enlisted for supply. I think it should be allowed

Response by PFC Sean Clonch made Apr 18 at 2018 4:46 PM

2018-04-18T16:46:42-04:00

While not authorized to wear the blue cord or discs while serving outside of an 11 series MOS, the right to wear the CIB/EIB is retained. Be happy and take that.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2018 9:59 PM

2018-04-18T21:59:48-04:00

Read: Didn’t get EIB or CIB and need people to know I did hard stuff before. I’m a POG now, I’m ok with that.

Response by SPC Josh McCoy made Apr 18 at 2018 10:12 PM

2018-04-18T22:12:16-04:00

Wear it you earned it. That's like saying well you aren't infantry anymore so take off your Combat Infantry Badge. Umm no!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 19 at 2018 7:45 AM

2018-04-19T07:45:59-04:00

It’s like unit awards once you leave you gotta switch get over it

Response by Cpl Richard Dow made Apr 19 at 2018 8:54 PM

2018-04-19T20:54:56-04:00

Was a corpral got injured, put me in a 2 1/2, took my stripes

Response by SPC Curt Hammons made Apr 21 at 2018 1:48 AM

2018-04-21T01:48:26-04:00

I was a 11C I was proud of my blue cord

Response by SGT Gregg Pimental made Apr 21 at 2018 10:54 PM

2018-04-21T22:54:36-04:00

I agree, everything else you earn, tab, wings, EIB/CIB are worn if you change MOS’s.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2018 6:16 AM

2018-04-27T06:16:55-04:00

I have mixed feelings about this. I understand the Infantry identity issue at hand, and wear my CIB proudly. The blue cord was important to me, but I see both sides have their points. I spent 23 years in the Infantry with 2 combat tours, but transferred to a supply position within an Infantry Battalion; changing my MOS to Quartermaster. Last year I tried out for the NCO of the Year board, and in prepping my ASU removed my blue cord for the first time in my career. Grilled by the board, I felt I did well, but did not win. After the board the SGM stated that the Battalion Commander was disappointed that for the last two years the Brigade's NCO of the year came from Field Artillery. He didn't like that the FA was attaining such prestige in an Infantry Brigade, and was really pushing to see "a blue cord" represent us at Brigade. Although I went up against 6 other great NCOs, and all of us were deserving to win, I still can't shake the feeling that my lack of the cord had something to do with the results.

Response by SGT Corey Gray made Apr 28 at 2018 3:12 PM

2018-04-28T15:12:51-04:00

Because the cord denotes current active MOS as combat arms...yellow for cav, red for arty, blue for infantry.

If you are not in one of these combat arms MOS's, currently, you have NOT "earned it", it is NOT a "permanent award", it is a piece of additional uniform to identify you as an actual combat soldier right now, as opposed to "support"...because we NEED support, for the military to run...but without us, there's nothing for you to support, and no reason for you to exist.

Doesn't make us anything "above", but it DOES make it logical to add items that are ONLY part of the uniform while you are active.

Example...you kept your jump wings because you were given them as an AWARD. Same with your qual badges, CIB, anything of that sort. They are badges. You're awarded medals. You're AWARDED your tab, on a permanent basis, after 6 months, as a ranger or above. Until you have done something to be awarded them, you're not permitted to wear them...once you have, they are FOREVER yours.

The cords aren't an award, though...they're nothing but a functions designator for the actual fighters. Do you expect to wear an Army uniform in the Marines, if you transfer across services? No? Why not? COMPLETELY DIFFERENT UNIFORM STANDARDS, and you are not Army, anymore, you're marines...so yo wear Marine uniform.

Blue cord is INFANTRY uniform, not ARMY uniform, just like, back in the jungle BDU days, a red beret meant airborne...nobody else could wear one, if not in an active airborne unit, and you lost the right upon exiting one...or a black beret for Rangers...which you were disallowed if you exited Rangers...regardless of MOS.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2018 8:30 PM

2018-04-29T20:30:35-04:00

That's a very interesting article.

Response by SSG Dale London made Apr 29 at 2018 9:01 PM

2018-04-29T21:01:57-04:00

The simple answer is that you have to be assigned to an infantry unit or to an infantry slot in a non-infantry unit to rate the rope. If you reclassify to an MOS that is not CMF-11 you do not qualify as you are no longer an infantryman.
Likewise, if you transfer to a non-infantry unit, even if you are still CMF-11, you are no longer entitled to wear the fourragere. Period.
It's sort of like wearing a PUC when you're in a unit that was awarded it but you transferred in after it came through. You get to wear it while you're with that unit but when you leave you need to take it off.

Response by PVT Dennis Brummett made Apr 29 at 2018 10:14 PM

2018-04-29T22:14:37-04:00

I think your right, you earned it just like a badge. You still get to wear your C.I.B, so why not the cord.

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Apr 29 at 2018 10:24 PM

2018-04-29T22:24:16-04:00

What about my case? I went to Fort Benning and graduated Infantry OSUT in the BBDU era - before BDUs. I am proud of my "status" as an Infantryman and am proud of my shoulder cord. However, as fate would have it, I went through my 35 year career not working in an Infantry MOS - mostly admin, signal and MP. Should I be allowed to wear it? My personal vanity tells me I should but, of course, I come from a biased perspective.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 30 at 2018 10:42 AM

2018-04-30T10:42:24-04:00

Perhaps because you are no longer 11B's- At one time, CAV, FA, EN and other branches had their own cord- so it would look silly to wear 2 cords, particularly if you ain't a grunt no more.

Response by Sgt Scott Seltzer made Apr 30 at 2018 6:03 PM

2018-04-30T18:03:36-04:00

It's a sign of respect for those infantry that were accorded the right to wear the blue rope by their involvement in the duty required to earn the right to the award. And should include any and all that earned the right by their service in the required field of duty.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Apr 30 at 2018 11:19 PM

2018-04-30T23:19:27-04:00

You left the MOS, so in leaving it, you forfeit anything besides the ability to have it listed in your ERB or ORB. Simple rules of the road. I reclassed from MP and I do not get to wear anything MP related on my uniform. I don't like it, but it's what I have to accept.

Response by SGT Cris Martin made Apr 30 at 2018 11:56 PM

2018-04-30T23:56:45-04:00

Though I was a Combat Medic (I do mean Medic, not this Healthcare Special motorpool/clinic/Hospital-ist I was combat arms all 4 years) if my 2 cents are worth anything, I feel that an Infantryman should be able to keep his Blue Cord if/when he earns his CIB as part of the privilege of “earning” the cord... not just by grace of going through school & serving the TIS. Kind of like the Fore ‘d Je cords, some units (esp the WWII units) wear them, but only those who earned them at the time of issue or conflict can wear them for life... same with combat patches and unit citations.

Response by LTC Joseph Fox made May 1 at 2018 12:39 PM

2018-05-01T12:39:40-04:00

I agree with current refs. As an Infantry Officer, when I served in my alternate specialty, the Blue cord came off. The fact that I also earned an EIB left no doubt where I came from. It was also extremely gratifying when I put my Blue Cord on my Grandson, when he “turned Blue” at Ft. Benning. He’s now serving with the 82d.

Response by SSG Larry Eaglebear made May 2 at 2018 1:53 AM

2018-05-02T01:53:37-04:00

I agree. They should have their blue cords permanently

Response by LTC Charles Hamilton made May 2 at 2018 7:20 PM

2018-05-02T19:20:58-04:00

I was not aware of the blue cord reg. Sucks! If I can wear a CIB, I should be allowed to wear the cord. The green cord I can understand. But I agree with the MC mantra of Once...Always.

Response by SPC Paul Goodfellow made May 2 at 2018 11:45 PM

2018-05-02T23:45:35-04:00

If you earned it,you own it.

Response by SSG Jereme Austin made May 3 at 2018 8:44 PM

2018-05-03T20:44:38-04:00

Should have stayed 11B Bro.

Response by SSG Darryl E Flack made May 4 at 2018 11:23 PM

2018-05-04T23:23:49-04:00

You earned it! Wear it!!!

Response by SPC Justin Ness made May 5 at 2018 7:11 PM

2018-05-05T19:11:19-04:00

A medic I knew at Hood ran into this issue and the reason he was given was because he have a decoration nobody else in formation had I think it's a bunch of crock the cord is a symbol of personal achievement just like any other medal or ribbon.

Response by PFC Michael Hope made May 6 at 2018 4:43 AM

2018-05-06T04:43:56-04:00

I have been out 44 years. A Little late to worry about it.

Response by SSG Mitchell Scarlett made May 7 at 2018 10:26 AM

2018-05-07T10:26:46-04:00

I think you should be able to. "Once blue...blue forever" It was earned. I feel like it should be a Permanent award.

Response by SGT Andrew Vega made May 8 at 2018 2:49 PM

2018-05-08T14:49:06-04:00

I couldn’t wear my EIB as a scout .

Response by SSgt David Gayou made May 8 at 2018 3:59 PM

2018-05-08T15:59:28-04:00

Veteran Marine Corps infantry. 5th, 6th and 9th Marine's wear the French Fortage, from Belleau woods. If you switch to a diffrent Regiment, you can keep your cords, but cannot wear them. They are, unit specific. SemperFi.

Response by SP5 Jeff Roberts made May 13 at 2018 7:42 PM

2018-05-13T19:42:14-04:00

My early MOS was 11B but was changed too another primary mos later. Rules are rules! I am 11b at heart but that is all!

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2018 12:44 PM

2018-05-14T12:44:19-04:00

I was 11b to start cross trained 19d ended my career as 93c which is funny couldn't find army air traffic control. Any way if you went to Fort Benning Georgia and completed basic and ait honorably you deserve that blue cord it's a staple of American Infantry

Response by CPL Gw Mw made May 14 at 2018 1:57 PM

2018-05-14T13:57:24-04:00

old school was: if you earned the blue cord in combat with an 11 or 18 series MOS you were allowed to keep it.

Response by SFC Marcus Lyman made May 15 at 2018 1:28 PM

2018-05-15T13:28:33-04:00

Back in WWII a saying was started. "He went the whole nine yards". A lot of soldiers were being killed and soldiers did not want to dwell on the subject of death. So when someone asked "What happened to Sergeant Jones?" or "Where is my buddy Private Smith?" and he had been killed in action, rather than bring up the subject of death and dying they would reply "He went the whole nine yards". If you unravel the Blue Infantry Cord.....it is 9 yards long. I wear one and I always will.

Response by LTC Lee Ellis made May 15 at 2018 3:52 PM

2018-05-15T15:52:28-04:00

I hold the enlisted MOS's 11B and 91B. I served in both. As a medic, I graduated from what at the time (1967) was a week-long test for the the Expert Field Medical Badge. I cannot wear the EFMB and the EIB together, so I never took the EIB test. However, I was an Army medic.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2018 3:15 PM

2018-05-16T15:15:10-04:00

I think the regulations are good the way they are.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2018 11:29 PM

2018-06-10T23:29:52-04:00

I feel like this would lead people to want to keep their berets or airborne tabs permanently.

Response by CSM David Porterfield made Jun 13 at 2018 12:13 PM

2018-06-13T12:13:22-04:00

The blue cord is earned but like a beret it goes with the billet and not a badge or tab. Stay in the infantry and you can wear your cord. I personally don't think the cord should be worn outside the infantry community other than already specified.

Response by CW2 Donald Loughrey made Jun 15 at 2018 10:06 AM

2018-06-15T10:06:41-04:00

I agree. I still have my Blue Braid. My thoughts on the topic are in a response to a previous response below.

Response by LTC Charles Patchin made Jun 16 at 2018 12:23 AM

2018-06-16T00:23:19-04:00

The Blue Cord is for those with an Infantry MOS in an Infantry Unit or an Infantryman detailed to Recruiting Command. When the individual reclassifies to a different Career Field the cord/discs go away. When SF was "Unassigned" but retained the primary EM MOS for positions, ie Inf, Medic, Eng, Commo or the officers MOS, Finance, Transport, Armor, etc the 11s wore the blue cord/disc. SF Qualification was the "Full Flash" worn on the organizational green beret If reassigned to another unit the green beret w/full flash went away. Nothing showed SF qualification was retained. The MOS qualification stayed When SF became it's own branch 18 CMF and qualification was shown by award of the SF Tab but, by regulation, the qualification of Infantry also required for wear of the blue cord/discs that the soldier be assigned to an Infantry unit. SF is not an Infantry unit and 18 series is not 11 series. If you want a great show piece qualify for the Expert Infantryman's Badge.. It is far more difficult to obtain than a Combat Infantry Badge and I know many proud grunts that wear the EIB instead of their CIB. The comment usually sounds like "I worked my ass off to get that damned EIB". I just had to get shot at to get the CIB. Now even 11s are awarded the "Participation Badge", the one with the bayonet. Please do not confuse how things used to be and why without knowing the why with today's requirements sine in the case of what if it becomes a bit of stolen valor or just plain wrong.

Response by 1SG Robert Rush made Jun 17 at 2018 8:40 AM

2018-06-17T08:40:25-04:00

Being Infantry for 20 years, I see nothing wrong with allowing former infantry soldier to wear the blue infantry cord on their derss uniforms. It is a distinction of honor just like an EIB. But that is up to the Department of the Army to make that call.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2018 10:04 PM

2018-06-30T22:04:51-04:00

11B is my SMOS. The blue cord and discs are those holding 11 B as PMOS.

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Jul 18 at 2018 11:11 PM

2018-07-18T23:11:47-04:00

21 years in the Army as 11B54. I wore the Cord only when I was in an Infantry slot. I spent 4 years of my career as an Infantry Liaison Officer to an Artillery Battalion... I did not wear the Cord there. Of course I also had a CIB that was always on my chest. I didn't always wear my Rack but the CIB was always there. I understand both sides..... and am conscious of the pride that goes with the Cord. Life Sucks Then You Die....... LOL

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Sep 24 at 2018 4:08 PM

2018-09-24T16:08:15-04:00

The blue cord is awarded to the Infantry not the individual. As the SGM stated there are many cords out there they are simply for the Branch. Thank you for your service.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 6:28 PM

2019-02-15T18:28:13-05:00

The cord isn't an award.
Making it an award could resolve that. Earning the EIB or CIB provides same recognition of 11- series background.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2019 1:43 AM

2019-07-18T01:43:11-04:00

I mean.....you still retain 11b as your secondary mos. So i don't see why you shouldn't be able to wear it.

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Jul 21 at 2019 5:03 PM

2019-07-21T17:03:29-04:00

Again, "This is a "what if" discussion - I know what they regs say. The post is meant to stimulate discussion and opinions."

Think of it this way: Soldiers leave an airborne unit, they keep their jump wings. Soldiers leave SF and Ranger units - they keep their tabs. Again, if there was enough support for this it may happen. Look at the new badges being created like a CAB for people who aren't anywhere near a battlefield. I was infantry for four years active duty and I get the infantry are special. Just a thought, times are changing. And for all you infantry guys who fight this, I completely understand, the blue cord is special.

Response by SPC Tyler Torgerson made Sep 2 at 2019 12:14 AM

2019-09-02T00:14:07-04:00

It's not your mos anymore. That's all it is is a accessory that shows you're infantry.

Response by Sgt John Koliha made Sep 2 at 2019 1:40 AM

2019-09-02T01:40:37-04:00

5th and 6th Marine Regiments were awarded a fourragere for wearing on the uniform blouse on the left shoulder. It was awarded for distinguished service in WW I by the French government. All members of these units wear this uniform accouterment anytime they wear a uniform blouse. When they depart the unit, they take it off, and don't put it on again until they might return.

This seems to me to be the same thing that happens with the Infantry cord. You're not there doing it any more then you lose the uniform accouterment.

Response by PO2 Bill Kuiper made Sep 3 at 2019 9:20 PM

2019-09-03T21:20:57-04:00

In the Navy, you get a rating badge that reflects your training. If you change rates you change your rating badge; you don't get to wear both. Same thing with MOS.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2019 3:06 PM

2019-10-03T15:06:22-04:00

I think you should be able to wear it, if you earned it. I was an 11B for just under 14 year and due to no choice of my own (medical) was reclassed, I can still wear my CIB why not the cord? That's my thought.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2019 2:24 PM

2019-10-30T14:24:22-04:00

Soldiers wear Airborne Wings, Ranger Tabs, and other skill identifiers / military recognition type devices on their uniform. A low percentage of those Soldiers serve in a specialized unit that is the pinnacle of their uniform items. We allow them to do so partly because we recognize the hard work and effort required to earn that badge or item. We also identify those special skills acquired to be useful in selecting Soldiers for the rights assignments etc etc.

I think the blue cord should be worn by current and former 11 series Soldiers the disks and rifles on the collar will distinguish those who are current 11 series from those of the past.

I’d stipulate to say that a retiree who completes their career of service as an 11 series soldier should have the full honors of wearing the same items they were authorized when active.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2020 12:40 PM

2020-11-23T12:40:49-05:00

I know this is quite an old discussion, but came across it as I was looking up some material. While I understand the view of keeping the chord, I think this could go along the lines of anyone that changes MOS, but still loved their former. I just changed my PMOS from 19K to 25B. Combat Arms was certainly a young man's game for me. When I didn't have my family to think of, or my kids, I had no issues being in a combat role. Now that I do have my kids and wife, there's more than just myself to consider. So time to switch up from a combat arms position.

With that said, I can't say I'm 100% happy. I'm aligning my civilian and military roles at this point. But there was a lot of pride in going Armor - It was something I had wanted from the moment I saw a tank being loaded at an Air Force base in Turkey during Desert Storm. So it would be nice to be able to retain my Armor disc. But, thus is not the way. I know willingly I am changing MOS', and with that giving up some of what I had.

Back in the 50's and 60's, Armor used to wear the Black Beret, unofficially, as it was designated across foreign militaries to designate Armor. Big Army took it away and gave it to every Soldier as a rite of passage. Then, for a while the Armor Corps had the yellow chord to designate Armor, but then Big Army took that away, designating the chords only for infantry.

Being attached to an infantry unit in Alaska, I was told I had to train for and compete for the EIB. No worries. But then I was advised, since I wasn't 11 series, I wouldn't be authorized to wear it, even if I did earn it. This tells me there is greater emphasis and passion on the EIB than on the chord. With that said, the chord itself shows, that while someone, who could be the biggest dirt bag, and barely know the profession of Infantry, could earn the chord, only a true expert in Infantry can earn the EIB. So, while I respect all in the 11 series, I think the EIB is held in even higher regards than the chord and discs alone.

Response by SFC Bryan Derricott made Feb 26 at 2021 11:05 PM

2021-02-26T23:05:06-05:00

You state that you view it similar to earning a badge or tab. Earn your EIB and you can wear that if you switch MOS.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2021 11:21 AM

2021-03-28T11:21:26-04:00

At least allow them to keep the cord or disks!

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2021 3:58 PM

2021-11-11T15:58:32-05:00

Would you allow a divorced spouse to wear your ring, or worse your name?

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Nov 11 at 2021 9:46 PM

2021-11-11T21:46:38-05:00

Even as an MP and former Medic (Navy Corpsman), I wondered about the same thing. 11B's wear their brass on a blue disc which is strictly reserved for those serving as 11B's. Seems that the blue cord should be able to be worn by anyone who WAS an 11B for a year or so. The Marines made it more simple - anyone under fire, and who RETURNED fire is eligible for their CAR (Combat Action Ribbon). Personnel aboard ships who sent rounds to the enemy are eligible as well which SORT of waters the CAR down a bit (no pun intended) but the rationale is that EVERYONE aboard a vessel is sharing the same risks as someone on a .50 cal or gun turret.
As for EIB and ECMB, I see no problem with any MOS going for those - they are after all, not easy to get. While I was in the MP Corps, and in hindsight, I wish I'd have gone for the ECMB .. then again, it's probably good that I didn't because it could've landed me back in the Medic MOS which I only had to do for the first 6 months that I was in the Army. Medics had a VRB of 4, and MP's only a VRB-1 making the medics a more critically short MOS at the time even though the MP Corps had more shortages/slots.

Response by SFC Timothy Wieboldt made Aug 2 at 2024 2:10 PM

2024-08-02T14:10:08-04:00

I have always wonder about this. When I was infantry I also earned the EIB. But change my MOS to work on the Abrams Tank. Then Retired after 22 years and 3 combat tours. I retired before all these new combat badges and new uniforms. But I always felt a close link to the infantry I served with. Even working with the Mortar men in I rack during live fires. I feel like it is something that has been taken away for the hard work in the school. Just like airborn, or ranger school.