As regional tensions have escalated in the Middle East, the U.S. Navy has acknowledged the valor of its sailors operating in the perilous waters of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. In response to persistent threats and actions against U.S. and allied maritime interests, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro has authorized the issuance of combat awards and devices for sailors who have demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication under fire.
As the Pentagon publicly argued that the U.S. military had not been pulled into a wider conflict in the Middle East, Navy officials said sailors and crews have downed nearly 200 drones and missiles in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since Oct. 19 and conducted strikes on more than 400 targets in Yemen since Jan. 11.The awards are a means of recognizing the sustained combat efforts and valor of these sailors in a region that is crucial to both economic and national security.
The awards include the Combat Action Ribbon, personal military decorations with “V” for valor, “C” for combat, and the Air Medal with the Strike/Flight designation. A significant aspect of this recognition is the inclusion of the “R” or “Remote Impact” device for individuals who had a hands-on impact on combat operations but were not exposed to hostile actions. The Navy’s move to authorize these awards reflects the growing challenges faced by sailors and Marines in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the airspace over Yemen—an area that has become increasingly contentious since the Houthi’s anti-ship missile and drone activities intensified.
The recognition of the sailors’ bravery was exemplified by the actions of the USS Carney’s crew, which on December 16 2023, responded with precision to a Houthi onslaught by intercepting 14 drones. For their efforts, the entire crew was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon, a prestigious honor that has been rarely bestowed in modern times. On Dec. 11, Gen. Erik Kurilla, the head of U.S. Central Command, flew out to the Carney to present awards to many of the sailors aboard the ship — including a Bronze Star for the commander.
This acknowledgment comes amidst a backdrop of political complexities. Early communications from Navy and Pentagon officials suggested that U.S. ships were not being specifically targeted, a stance that has been challenged by subsequent events, including an instance where a missile came within a mile of the USS Gravely. The awards convey a more accurate picture of the risks faced by sailors in these waters and counter previous assertions downplaying the threat level.
With over 129 recorded attacks or threats against U.S. Navy and commercial vessels since November 19 and 50 self-defense strikes against Iranian-backed Houthis, there has been a clear demand for a robust defense posture in the region. While some operational details remain undisclosed due to security concerns, these combat awards serve both to honor those who have faced these dangers and to provide a more transparent account of the challenges encountered in these strategic maritime corridors.
Relevant articles:
– Navy Authorizes Combat Awards for Sailors in the Red Sea Following Months of Attacks by Houthi Rebels, Military, 04/26/2024
– Navy authorizes combat awards and devices for Red Sea operations, NavyTimes.com, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:02:00 GMT
– Hstoday Navy Opens Up Combat Awards for Actions in Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, HSToday, Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:58:00 GMT
– Navy Opens Up Combat Awards for Actions in Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, USNI News, Wed, 24 Apr 2024 21:48:00 GMT
– Navy authorizes combat awards for actions in Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Stars and Stripes, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 15:50:43 GMT