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Thirteen warriors from the 102nd Intelligence Wing were part of a group of more than 120 Soldiers, Airmen and Coast Guard personnel who took part in the German Armed Forces Military Proficiency Badge competition, Sept. 6, at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts. The German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency is a decoration of the Bundeswehr, the armed forces of the Federal Republic of Germany. The decoration is awarded to all German Soldiers; however, allied soldiers may also be awarded the badge. In the United States military, the GAFBMP is one of the few approved foreign awards, and is one of the most sought after awards to achieve. For Airmen and Soldiers of the U.S. military, the device may be worn on the dress uniform in accordance with both services uniform regulations.
The three-day event is proctored by members of the German military who oversee each event and spend time mingling with our service members, answering questions and building friendships. Through the entire event the team of competitors bonded together, cheered for and motivated each other. Strong bonds were formed as members from all three uniformed services helped each other get through. Between events Soldiers and Airmen spent time talking about the various mission sets, ranks and cultures of their respective services. This event was a lesson in Joint Warfare and team building exercises as much as an individual competition.
The device is not just handed out, it needs to be earned through sweat, tears and the demonstration of proficiency in firearms and military expeditionary skills. Events include swimming, sprinting, running, chinning, shooting, Chemical warfare proficiency and demonstration of combat first aid and lifesaving skills. Notably, every member of the 102IW team shot Gold in the pistol qualification, something that I was told had not been accomplished by any unit in the past. The last day ended with a rigorous 12 k ruck march, more of a ruck run, and a badge pinning ceremony for those that accomplish totaling enough points to qualify for a badge. The badge is awarded in three ranks, Gold, Silver and Bronze and anyone who does not get a go at a station by reaching a minimal score or demonstrating a level of proficiency is excluded from earning the badge. Some of those that did not qualify in an event and were not eligible for a badge still gutted it out and did every event showing what it means to be a Battle Buddy or a Wingman.
The badge ceremony was held at the Walpole German American Club Octoberfest, a very fitting location. The Octoberfest was attended by hundreds of visitors who watched 68 badges awarded, including ten to members of the 102IW. Of the three members of the 102IW who did not qualify for the badge all remained in the competition and completed the ruck march showing true Airmanship and tenacity. After the event participants were allowed to mingle with the crowd, enjoy the German culture and answer questions from the people attending.
Overall this was a great experience for our people and several have volunteered to help train next year’s team. I could not recommend this event more highly and look forward to seeing even more of our 102IW members take part in next year’s event.
| Date Taken: | 09.06.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 09.14.2018 11:18 |
| Story ID: | 292798 |
| Location: | CAPE COD, MA, US |
| Web Views: | 281 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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