Since 2005, when the combat meritorious advancement program (CMAP) was announced in NAVADMIN 077/05, more than 150 Sailors have been advanced for their actions in combat situations; many of them for actions during an IA.

"Most advancements approved have been for actions in Iraq and Afghanistan," said Lt. Cmdr. Kimberly Pizanti the enlisted advancement planner for enlisted force-shaping and advancements.

Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Brian Mullis, of Strategic Communications Wing 1, earned the promotion to petty officer 2nd class through CMAP, following a successful tour with the Asadabad Provincial Reconstruction Team in the Kunar Province of Afghanistan from May 2006 to May 2007.

"This feels pretty good," Mullis said after his advancement ceremony. "(CMAP) is a great program for those guys that go over there and go above and beyond to put themselves in danger. There were times where it was real dangerous, and things could have gotten pretty ugly. To go over there and be recognized like this makes you feel like it was all worth it."

In order to qualify for the program, Sailors must currently be in pay grades E1 through E5 as the program is not authorized to promote Sailors to E7 or above.

The Sailor's command must submit a request through their chain of command to be approved by the commanding officer and sent on to the awarding authority. Full instructions on the requirements and submission process can be found in BUPERSINST 1430.16F.

"The packages we receive are absolutely impressive," said Pizanti. "There are Sailors out there every day going above and beyond in the most trying of circumstances.

"They are responding to urgent situations with professionalism, maturity, courage, sacrifice and dedication. Package upon package comes in with stories about shipmates placing themselves in harm's way for their fellow warriors, be they American or foreign, and the citizens of foreign countries."

According to Pizanti the Sailors advanced under this program are being recognized as leaders, and "they are an example for all to follow. I personally am honored to facilitate the advancement of these outstanding, well-deserving Sailors."

Sailors who may deserve advancement through CMAP and think their command may not know about the program should not be afraid to bring it up with their supervisors.

"Just ask. It can't hurt. commands need to be aware of this program and in-theater commands should already know," Pizanti added.

Advancement through CMAP does not limit the Sailor from receiving any additional awards for their actions. Sound Off...What do you think? Join the discussion.

Copyright 2008 Navy News. All opinions expressed in this article are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of Military.com. Related Articles
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