Bronze R (Remote) Device

The C (Combat) Device and R (Remote) Device were introduced by the U.S. Army Human Resources Command on March 15, 2017, in MILPER Message 17-095. These devices, authorized retroactively to January 7, 2016, were created following the Military Decorations and Awards Review (MDAR) conducted by the Department of Defense (DoD). This comprehensive review aimed to ensure military decorations appropriately recognize service members’ sacrifices and actions.

The C Device honors those who demonstrate meritorious performance under combat conditions, while the R Device acknowledges personal performance in remote service that directly contributes to combat operations. These distinctions respond to requests from across the Service Departments to differentiate awards earned in combat from others.

The requirements, eligibility, and approval process for both devices are detailed in AR 600-8-22, which also lists the specific awards eligible for a C or R Device and provides guidance for retroactive approval. Approval authorities remain consistent with those of the corresponding awards.