What is a Combat Support Agency?

Introduction Combat support agency (CSA) is a designation by the United States Department of Defence (DoD) of those defence agencies that provide department-level and tactical support to the US military during combat operations. Background The designation was first outlined by the Goldwater-Nichols Department of Defence Reorganisation Act of 1986, with subsequent additions based on the… Read More

What was the Goldwater-Nichols Act?

Introduction The Goldwater–Nichols Department of Defence Reorganisation Act of 04 October 1986 Pubic Law 99–433, (signed by President Ronald Reagan), made the most sweeping changes to the United States Department of Defence since the department was established in the National Security Act of 1947 by reworking the command structure of the US military. It increased… Read More

What are Military Awards and Decorations?

Introduction Military awards and decorations are distinctions given as a mark of honour for military heroism, meritorious or outstanding service or achievement. A decoration is often a medal consisting of a ribbon and a medallion. While the United States Government does not consider all its military awards and medals as being “decorations”, other countries tend… Read More

What is Phaleristics?

Introduction Phaleristics, from the Greek mythological hero Phalerus (Greek: Φάληρος, Phaleros) via the Latin phalera (‘heroics’), sometimes spelled faleristics, is an auxiliary science of history and numismatics which studies orders, fraternities, and award items, such as medals, ribbons, and other decorations. Definition The subject includes orders of chivalry (including military orders), orders of merit, and… Read More

What are US Military Ribbons?

Introduction United States (US) military ribbons are presented to service personnel serving in a Department of Defence (DOD) component, through the DOD Military Decorations and Awards Programme. The objective of the awards programme is to “provide tangible recognition for acts of valor, meritorious service or achievement under combat conditions, exceptional service or achievement, special skills… Read More