Originally Posted by
upsdaisy
ES,
I am inclined to disagree, the roles you mention are neither arduous nor hazardous, it would be wrong to hand out medals simply for carrying out your role away from home. As an example, should a sailor receive a medal for deploying aboard a ship for nine months, I would argue that being aboard a pussers grey or submarine with (until recently) little in the way of home comms is more arduous than the CAOC, Cyprus or Vegas. I agree recognition should be given where due, but not in the form of a medal, maybe a certificate would suffice.
It's nice to be appreciated. Appreciation is what stops us hemorrhaging suitably qualified and experienced personnel for higher paid civvy jobs with a better work-life balance.
Neither arduous nor hazardous?... Are you aware how much time some guys are spending away from home and how often? Its now a case of OOA, come home for a few months then back OOA again. There's guys who have spent over 365 days on Shader alone.
There's guys on girls on Shader who are routinely doing 12 hour shifts, 6 days a week. Every week, for months.
The accommodation is so unfit for purpose it's officially classed as field conditions.
So it's inaccurate to say it's not arduous work and comparable to a post back home.
I can think of MBEs and OBEs that have been handed out for less.