The Navy Marksmanship Ribbon is a prestigious award recognizing excellence in marksmanship for Sailors and officers in the United States Navy. Earning this ribbon demonstrates dedication to firearm proficiency and contributes to overall readiness. This guide will comprehensively cover the requirements for earning this important award.
Understanding the Award Categories
The Navy Marksmanship Ribbon isn't awarded for simply meeting a minimum standard. Instead, it's categorized based on the level of proficiency achieved. The categories, along with their respective requirements, are as follows:
Expert (E)
This is the highest level of achievement within the Navy Marksmanship program, indicating exceptional skill and precision. Requirements for the Expert qualification vary depending on the weapon system used. Generally, earning an Expert qualification necessitates consistently scoring high across multiple firing ranges and demonstrating superior control and accuracy. Specific score requirements are detailed in official Navy directives and training materials, which are updated periodically. Contact your command's training officer for the most current information.
Sharpshooter (S)
The Sharpshooter qualification represents a strong level of marksmanship competence. Like the Expert qualification, requirements are weapon-specific and based on achieving a certain score across various firing exercises. Again, the precise score needed for Sharpshooter classification is found in current official Navy documentation and will be communicated by your command's leadership and training staff.
Marksman (M)
This is the entry-level qualification for the Navy Marksmanship Ribbon. Meeting the Marksman standard shows a foundational level of proficiency with firearms. While it's the lowest level of qualification, it's still an accomplishment that demonstrates fundamental competence in handling and utilizing weaponry. Your command will provide you with the specific score requirements to achieve this qualification.
Weapons Systems Involved
The Navy Marksmanship Ribbon can be earned through proficiency with various weapons systems, including but not limited to:
- Pistols: These are typically the standard sidearms issued to Navy personnel.
- Rifles: Various rifle platforms are utilized within the Navy, and proficiency with each may contribute to the award.
- Submachine Guns: Depending on the individual's role and responsibilities, proficiency with submachine guns might be a factor.
How to Earn the Navy Marksmanship Ribbon
The process for earning the Navy Marksmanship Ribbon typically involves several steps:
- Qualification Course: Sailors must participate in a designated marksmanship qualification course. These courses are offered regularly within the Navy and are designed to provide the necessary training and opportunity to qualify.
- Scoring Requirements: Achieving the required score, whether Marksman, Sharpshooter, or Expert, is crucial.
- Documentation: All scores must be properly documented and submitted through official channels for verification and record-keeping.
- Award Ceremony: Upon successful qualification, the Navy Marksmanship Ribbon is presented during a formal ceremony or by your command.
Maintaining Proficiency
While earning the ribbon signifies achieved proficiency, maintaining that level of skill is essential. Continuous training and practice are recommended to ensure ongoing readiness and competence. Many commands incorporate regular marksmanship practice into training schedules to maintain their personnel's skills.
Contacting Your Command
For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Navy Marksmanship Ribbon requirements, contact your command's training officer or leadership. They possess the most current directives and guidelines and can answer any specific questions you may have. They will also provide guidance on scheduling qualification courses and the submission of your scores.
This information is intended for guidance and should not be considered official policy. Consult official Navy publications and your chain of command for definitive information.
