"C" Device

A "C" device is a metal 1/4 in capital letter "C" (without serifs) which, when worn on certain decorations awarded by the United States Armed Forces, distinguishes an award for meritorious service or achievement in a combat environment rather than for heroism or valor in combat.

Army
Per Army MILPER Message 17-095 (dated 15 March 2017), the "C" device is only authorized if the service or achievement was performed under combat conditions (while the Soldier was personally exposed to hostile action or in an area where other Soldiers were actively engaged) while:


 * 1) Engaged in action against an enemy of the United States;
 * 2) Engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
 * 3) Serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.

Award of the “C” device is based on the specific circumstances under which the service or achievement was performed. The award is not determined solely on geographic location or unit of assignment, and the award may recognize specific achievements and/or extended periods of service.

The “C” device may be awarded with the following Army awards to recognize exceptionally meritorious service or achievement performed under combat conditions on or after 7 January 2016:


 * 1) Distinguished Service Medal (DSM)
 * 2) Legion of Merit (LOM)
 * 3) Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
 * 4) Air Medal (AM)
 * 5) Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM)
 * 6) Army Achievement Medal (AAM)

Retroactive Awarding
The "C" device is automatically retroactive for awards meeting the award criteria dated on or after 7 January 2016.

For awards that meet the award criteria but were dated before 7 January 2016, a Soldier may submit a Department of the Army (DA) Form 4187, to include written justification of the awarding of the device and a copy of the original DA 638, to the appropriate member of the chain of command to which the award corresponds. (AAM=LTC, ARCOM=COL, etc.)