Combat Action Ribbon (CAR)

Start Here If You Are New to the CAR

The Combat Action Ribbon (CAR) recognizes Marines who actively engaged the enemy in ground or surface combat. It is one of the most coveted awards on a Marine's rack because it tells future commanders, future hiring panels, and future boards that you have been in the fight. It is also one of the most misunderstood. Many Marines assume that deployment to a combat zone, or even taking enemy fire while transiting, qualifies. It does not.

This page walks you through the CAR from your seat as a General Marine. By the end you will know.

• The exact active-engagement standard
• The hard rule of one CAR per named operation (lifetime)
• The Purple Heart relationship (PH does not auto-confer CAR, valor PMD does)
• The retroactive routing structure that splits authority across MARCENT, MARFORSOC, and HQMC by time period
• The NAVMC 11533NAVMC 11533 nomination template and what supporting documentation goes in the package
• The C-device-versus-CAR distinction (the C device is broader, the CAR is narrower)
• How the CAR posts to MCTFS and what to verify on your record

Every fact on this page comes from SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C, ALNAV 068/12ALNAV 068/12 (current CAR criteria), ALNAV 055/17ALNAV 055/17 paragraph 4.l (clarifying the C-device-versus-CAR distinction), MARADMIN 665/17MARADMIN 665/17, MCO 1650.19JMCO 1650.19J w/ CH 1, MARADMIN 077/25MARADMIN 077/25, current MMPB-3 Military Awards Section guidance, and the MMPB-31 Combat Action Ribbon submission rules.

What the CAR Is

Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C, the Combat Action Ribbon recognizes Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen serving with the Navy or Marine Corps who actively participated in ground or surface combat with an enemy of the United States.

The CAR is not a PMD. It is not a unit award. It is not a CE&S award in the traditional sense (it does not recognize geographic deployment). It sits in its own category alongside the Purple Heart per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 paragraph 1.2.a.(4), as the two awards that "do not fit squarely within any of the above categories" but share traits with PMDs.

The CAR has been the recognition standard for active combat engagement since 17 February 1969 (Vietnam-era authorization).

Why the CAR Matters to You

The CAR is the most universally recognized signal of combat experience on a Marine's uniform. Three things make it heavyweight.

• Permanent record of combat engagement. Once approved, the CAR is in your record for life and follows you to your DD-214.
• Career signal at promotion boards. Promotion boards and command screening boards see CAR-holders as Marines with proven combat experience. The signal carries weight beyond the ribbon itself.
• VA disability claim adjudication. Per VA regulations, lay statements from combat veterans receive special consideration. The CAR establishes combat-veteran status for VA purposes.

A missed CAR is more than a missed ribbon. It is a missed line on the DD-214 the VA looks for when adjudicating combat-related claims and the Marine Corps boards reference when reviewing a Marine's combat history.

The Active-Engagement Standard

Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C and ALNAV 068/12ALNAV 068/12, the CAR criteria require five conditions to be met.

1. The Marine was a member of the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard at the time of the action.
2. The Marine participated in a bona fide ground or surface combat engagement.
3. The combat was against an enemy of the United States, an opposing armed force, or a hostile foreign force.
4. The Marine was in a designated combat area at the time of the engagement (the Assistant Secretary of the Navy designates qualifying named operations and time periods).
5. The Marine actively participated in or was directly engaged by the enemy.

The active-participation standard is the test most Marines miss. Per Appendix 2C, the standard requires.

• The Marine must have rendered satisfactory performance under enemy fire.
• The Marine's unit must have been in actual contact with the enemy.
• Mere presence in a combat zone is not sufficient.
• Mere transit through a combat area is not sufficient.

A Marine on a base that is mortared, with no return fire from the Marine and no active engagement role, typically does not qualify. A Marine on a patrol where the patrol was fired upon and returned fire qualifies.

The One-CAR-per-Named-Operation Rule

Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C, only one CAR is awarded per named operation, regardless of how many separate combat engagements the Marine participated in during that operation.

Translation. A Marine on three deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) earns one CAR for the entire OIF period. A Marine deploying to OIF once and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) once earns two CARs (one per named operation), denoted by a 5/16-inch bronze star on the ribbon.

Subsequent CARs (one per additional named operation) are denoted by a 5/16-inch bronze star, with a 5/16-inch silver star replacing five bronze.

CAR Versus C Device Versus Purple Heart

Per ALNAV 055/17ALNAV 055/17 paragraph 4.l and SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C paragraph 2C.1.c.(3), the relationships among the CAR, the C device, and the Purple Heart matter.

CAR Versus C Device

Per ALNAV 055/17ALNAV 055/17 paragraph 4.l, authorization of the C device on a personal decoration does NOT entitle the recipient to wear the CAR. The CAR criteria are more restrictive than the C device criteria.

• The C device requires personal exposure to hostile action, or significant risk of exposure to hostile action.
• The CAR requires active participation in ground or surface combat with the enemy.

A Marine in a forward base under indirect fire (mortar attack, RPG attack) is exposed to hostile action and qualifies for the C device on a meritorious-service award. The same Marine does not necessarily qualify for the CAR because there was no active ground or surface combat engagement.

Per ALNAV 055/17ALNAV 055/17 paragraph 4.m, qualifying for the CAR satisfies the personal exposure standard for the C device. So the CAR is a higher threshold than the C device.

CAR and Purple Heart

Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C paragraph 2C.1.c.(3)(c), being awarded the Purple Heart does NOT automatically qualify the Marine for the CAR. The CAR has separate criteria centered on active engagement against the enemy. A Marine wounded by an IED while transiting (no active combat engagement) qualifies for the Purple Heart but not the CAR.

Per Appendix 2C paragraph 2C.1.c.(3)(b), being awarded a PMD for valor (NX, SS, BSM with V, etc.) DOES automatically qualify the Marine for the CAR. The valor recognition implies active combat engagement.

How the CAR Process Works

Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C and MMPB-31 guidance, the CAR is processed and approved by the Marine's operational chain of command in place at the time of action. This is the foundational rule that drives all CAR routing.

Step 1. Originator Files the Nomination

The originator (typically the Marine's reporting senior or the unit commander at the time of the engagement) drafts the CAR nomination. The nomination uses NAVMC 11533NAVMC 11533 (Combat Action Ribbon nomination template), available at the MMPB-31 webpage.

Step 2. Required Supporting Documentation

The package includes.

• NAVMC 11533NAVMC 11533 nomination form
• Detailed Summary of Action describing the combat engagement
• Eyewitness statements (typically two minimum) describing the Marine's active participation
• Unit deployment orders confirming presence in the named operation during the qualifying period
• Operational records (after-action reports, SIGACTs, patrol reports) supporting the engagement narrative

Step 3. Routing Through the Operational Chain at the Time of Action

This is where the CAR diverges from most awards. The CAR routes through the operational chain in place at the time of the engagement, not the chain at the time of nomination submission. Per MMPB-31 guidance, the awarding authority depends on when and where the action occurred.

Recent Actions (Last 3 Years)

• General actions. Commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command (MARCENT). Email COMUSMARCENTAWARDS@usmc.mil.
• MARSOC actions. Commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARFORSOC). Email MARSOC.G1.RETRO.Active.Awards.SHDMBX@socom.mil.

Rolling Window (30 August 2021 to 3 Years Ago)

HQMC holds authority for actions in this rolling window.

• Email HQMC at smb_hqmc_pers_awards@usmc.mil.
• Example. If today is 26 February 2025, HQMC has authority from 31 August 2021 to 25 February 2022.

GWOT-Era Actions (11 September 2001 to 30 August 2021)

Authority depends on the type of unit and assignment.

• General actions. MARCENT. Email COMUSMARCENTAWARDS@usmc.mil.
• MARSOC actions (19 April 2007 to 30 August 2021). MARFORSOC. Email MARSOC.G1.RETRO.Active.Awards.SHDMBX@socom.mil.

Pre-9/11 Actions

HQMC. Email smb_hqmc_pers_awards@usmc.mil.

Step 4. Approval

The awarding authority reviews against the active-engagement criteria and the operational records. Approval, downgrade to no-award, or referral up the chain follows.

Step 5. Records Update

Approved CARs post to MCTFS through the Unit Diary. The Marine's MBS reflects the award. The DD-214 picks it up at separation per MARADMIN 093/25MARADMIN 093/25.

Time Limits for the CAR

Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 1A and Appendix 8C, the CAR has no time limit for origination. A Marine who participated in active combat 20 years ago is still eligible to be nominated. The reclama process for older actions runs through the time-period-based routing above.

The unlimited window is one of the few in the awards system. Per Appendix 1A, PMDs have a 3-year origination window. The Purple Heart and CAR are open indefinitely.

Verifying Your CAR in Your Record

If you participated in qualifying combat and the CAR has not posted, work through this sequence.

Step 1. Pull Your Master Brief Sheet (MBS)

Through Marine Online (MOL). Look for.

• The CAR ribbon entry
• Star indicator if a subsequent CAR (multiple named operations)
• Date of action

Step 2. Compare Against Your Combat History

If the CAR is not on your record but you participated in active combat during a qualifying named operation.

• Pull deployment orders to the named operation
• Pull operational records (after-action reports, patrol reports, SIGACTs) showing your participation in active combat
• Identify witnesses to the engagement

Step 3. Submit a CAR Nomination

For unrecognized engagements, submit a CAR nomination using NAVMC 11533NAVMC 11533. Route through the operational chain of command at the time of the action per the time-period rules above.

For older actions where the original chain of command is no longer accessible, the reclama process runs through the time-period-based authority. HQMC handles pre-9/11 and rolling-window cases.

Step 4. Locate Witnesses

Per MARADMIN 245/11MARADMIN 245/11 paragraph 8.D (referenced for Purple Heart but applicable in similar contexts), to locate active duty, reserve, or retired Marines for endorsements, contact the CMC (MMSB) World Wide Locator.

• Email. SMB.MANPOWER.MMSB@USMC.MIL
• Phone. 1-800-268-3710

Common Questions Marines Ask

I deployed to Afghanistan but never left the FOB. Do I get the CAR?

No. Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C, mere presence in a combat zone is not sufficient. The standard requires active participation in a ground or surface combat engagement. A Marine working at an FOB without participating in combat patrols or returning fire does not qualify regardless of deployment length.

I was on patrol when the patrol was hit by an IED. I returned fire. Do I qualify for the CAR?

If the patrol was actively engaged with the enemy and you participated in returning fire, yes. The criteria require active engagement in ground combat. Document the engagement details in the NAVMC 11533NAVMC 11533 nomination with eyewitness statements.

I was wounded in combat. Do I automatically get the CAR?

Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C paragraph 2C.1.c.(3)(c), no. The Purple Heart and the CAR have separate criteria. A Marine wounded by an IED while transiting (no active combat engagement) qualifies for the Purple Heart but not the CAR. Submit a CAR nomination if you actively participated in the engagement that produced the wound.

I received a Bronze Star with V for an action in Iraq. Do I automatically get the CAR?

Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C paragraph 2C.1.c.(3)(b), yes. Being awarded a valor PMD automatically qualifies you for the CAR. If the CAR has not posted automatically, coordinate with your S-1 to add the entry.

I served three deployments in support of OIF and one in OEF. How many CARs do I have?

Two CARs. Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 2C, only one CAR is awarded per named operation, regardless of the number of deployments. OIF generates one CAR (one bronze star on the ribbon if also OEF). OEF generates a second CAR (the bronze star on the ribbon).

Why is the C device on my NC not the same as the CAR?

Per ALNAV 055/17ALNAV 055/17 paragraph 4.l, the C device recognizes meritorious service under combat conditions (personal exposure to hostile action). The CAR recognizes active participation in ground or surface combat. The C device standard is broader. A Marine who received a NC with C device is allowed to also qualify for the CAR if the active-engagement standard was independently met during the same period, but the two are not automatic.

I am a veteran and my CAR was never submitted. Is the path still open?

Yes. Per SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 Appendix 1A, the CAR has no time limit for origination. Pull your DD-214 (or request via SF-180 from National Personnel Records Center), gather operational records and witness statements, and submit through the time-period-based authority. Pre-9/11 actions route to HQMC. GWOT-era actions route to MARCENT or MARFORSOC. Recent actions (last 3 years) route to MARCENT or MARFORSOC. The rolling window in between routes to HQMC.

What documentation is required for a CAR nomination?

Per the MMPB-31 webpage and current CAR submission guidance, the package contains.

• NAVMC 11533NAVMC 11533 (CAR template).
• Detailed Summary of Action describing the engagement.
• Eyewitness statements (typically two minimum).
• Deployment orders to the named operation during the qualifying period.
• Operational records (after-action reports, SIGACTs, patrol reports) supporting the engagement.

Where to Go for Help

A Note on HQMC Awards Office Designations

The Marine Corps reorganized its awards office over time. Three designations show up in policies tied to the CAR. Get the distinction right so you route requests correctly.

• HQMC Manpower Performance Branch, Military Awards Section (MMPB-3). The current umbrella office handling Marine Corps awards adjudication, policy interpretation, and CMC-level approval routing including CAR retroactive cases for the rolling window and pre-9/11 actions. Listed on the Manpower Marines website at https://www.manpower.marines.mil/Divisions/Manpower-Management/Performance-Branch/Military-Awards/.
• HQMC MMPB-31. A sub-element under MMPB-3 specifically handling administrative actions on awards including CAR submissions, NAVMC 11533NAVMC 11533 templates, and the administrative correction templates referenced in MARADMIN 093/25MARADMIN 093/25 paragraph 10.k. The NAVMC 11533NAVMC 11533 CAR template is available at the MMPB-31 webpage. MMPB-31 is NOT the same as MMMA. The two have different functions.
• CMC (MMMA), Military Awards Branch. The historical designation appearing in older policy documents (SECNAV M-1650.1SECNAV M-1650.1 paragraph 1.3, MCO 1650.19JMCO 1650.19J, and earlier MARADMINs). When you see MMMA in those documents, the function continues today under MMPB-3.

For current Marine Corps CAR questions, contact MMPB-3.

• Email. smb_hqmc_pers_awards@usmc.mil
• Phone. 703-784-9342
• Website. https://www.manpower.marines.mil/Divisions/Manpower-Management/Performance-Branch/Military-Awards/

For the NAVMC 11533NAVMC 11533 CAR template and submission requirements, see the MMPB-31 webpage.

Routing by Time Period (Most Important for CAR)

• Recent actions (last 3 years) - General. Commander, MARCENT. Email COMUSMARCENTAWARDS@usmc.mil.
• Recent actions (last 3 years) - MARSOC. Commander, MARFORSOC. Email MARSOC.G1.RETRO.Active.Awards.SHDMBX@socom.mil.
• Rolling window (30 August 2021 to 3 years ago). HQMC. Email smb_hqmc_pers_awards@usmc.mil.
• GWOT-era (11 September 2001 to 30 August 2021) - General. MARCENT. Email COMUSMARCENTAWARDS@usmc.mil.
• GWOT-era (19 April 2007 to 30 August 2021) - MARSOC. MARFORSOC. Email MARSOC.G1.RETRO.Active.Awards.SHDMBX@socom.mil.
• Pre-9/11 actions. HQMC. Email smb_hqmc_pers_awards@usmc.mil.

Other Key Contacts

• World Wide Locator for finding witnesses (Marines on active duty, reserve, or retired). CMC (MMSB) at SMB.MANPOWER.MMSB@USMC.MIL or 1-800-268-3710.
• DD-214 retrieval for veterans. Standard Form (SF) 180 to the National Personnel Records Center.
• VA medical records (combat veteran). Department of Veteran Affairs, Records Management Center, P.O. Box 5020, St. Louis, MO 63115-8950.

Where to Go Next on This Site

• Awards Overview lays out the three categories of awards and where the CAR sits alongside the Purple Heart as a unique award.
• Purple Heart covers the parallel award with similar reclama procedures by time period.
• Personal Military Decorations (PMDs) covers the V/C/R devices and how a valor PMD auto-confers the CAR.
• Wearing Your Awards covers ribbon precedence and devices on the rack.
• Verifying Your Awards in OMPF walks through the verification steps in detail.

Related Roles

• Leaders witness combat engagements, draft Summaries of Action and eyewitness statements, and route CAR nominations through the operational chain of command at the time of action.
• Admin at S-1 manages CAR documentation, posts approved CARs to OMPF and MCTFS, and routes retroactive nominations through the time-period-based authority.
• Commanders at the operational level (MARCENT, MARFORSOC, or HQMC depending on time period) approve CARs and ensure the active-engagement standard is consistently applied.

The CAR represents combat engagement, not deployment. The standard is high. Document the engagement, route through the right authority based on the time period, and verify the award lands in your record.