Among combat veterans, few topics generate as much debate as whether the Combat Action Ribbon (CAR) is “better” than the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB). Both awards signify direct engagement with enemy forces, yet they apply to different branches and service roles. This article breaks down the differences clearly, explains eligibility, and answers the real question: is one award better than the other?
What Is the Combat Action Ribbon (CAR)?
The Combat Action Ribbon was established in 1969 and is awarded to members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard who actively participate in ground or surface combat. Unlike some combat awards, the CAR is not restricted by job specialty.
To qualify for the CAR, a service member must:
- Actively participate in combat
- Be under enemy fire or engage enemy forces
- Perform satisfactorily during the engagement
The CAR recognizes the experience of combat itself, regardless of occupational specialty.
What Is the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB)?
The Combat Infantryman Badge is one of the Army’s most respected combat awards. Established in 1943, it is awarded only to infantry and Special Forces soldiers who engage in active ground combat.
CIB eligibility requires:
- Infantry or Special Forces MOS
- Assignment to an infantry unit
- Active participation in ground combat with the enemy
The CIB is intentionally exclusive and designed to recognize the unique role of infantry soldiers in direct combat.
Eligibility Differences Between CAR and CIB
The biggest difference between the CAR and CIB lies in who can receive them.
The CAR is inclusive of multiple job roles, allowing medics, mechanics, artillery crew, and support personnel to be recognized if they engage in combat. The CIB, by contrast, is strictly limited to infantry and Special Forces, regardless of how intense the combat may be for other soldiers.
This difference often fuels the comparison between the two awards.
Does One Award Carry More Prestige?
Prestige is subjective, and officially, neither award outranks the other. Each is highly respected within its own branch.
The CIB is often seen as prestigious because:
- It is difficult to earn
- It is restricted to specific MOS roles
- It has a long historical legacy
The CAR is equally respected because:
- It recognizes real combat experience
- It applies across a wide range of roles
- It acknowledges that modern warfare involves all service members
Neither award is considered superior by regulation.
Is the Combat Action Ribbon Easier to Earn?
A common myth is that the CAR is easier to earn than the CIB. This is not true. Both awards require direct enemy engagement, and neither is automatic.
Approval for both awards depends on:
- Verified combat action
- Command documentation
- Witness statements or operational reports
The difference lies in eligibility, not difficulty.
Can One Service Member Receive Both?
In rare cases, yes. A service member who changes branches or qualifies under different eligibility rules could potentially earn both, but this is uncommon and highly situation-dependent.
Order of Precedence and Wear
The CAR and CIB are worn differently due to their nature:
- The CAR is a ribbon
- The CIB is a badge
They are not ranked against each other in a traditional order of precedence. Each is worn according to branch regulations and uniform standards.
Why This Comparison Matters
The debate over CAR vs CIB often stems from pride, identity, and tradition rather than regulation. Combat affects all service members differently, and both awards exist to recognize real exposure to enemy action.
Attempting to rank one above the other misunderstands their purpose.
Common Misconceptions
Many people incorrectly believe:
- The CIB is always superior to the CAR
- The CAR is awarded too easily
- Support personnel should not receive combat recognition
None of these beliefs are supported by official military policy.
Final Thoughts
The Combat Action Ribbon is not better than the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the CIB is not better than the CAR. Each award exists to recognize direct combat experience within different branches and roles. The real value of both awards lies in what they represent: service members who faced enemy fire and performed their duties under extreme conditions. Respect for combat service should never be measured by which ribbon or badge is worn, but by the sacrifice and professionalism behind it.