Boomer Force Earns MUC

Everyone assigned to an SSBN or SSBN support role from July 2007 to January 2011 was awarded a Meritorious Unit Commendation today. From the COMSUBFOR blog, here's the award citation:

For meritorious service from 16 July 2007 to 28 January 2011. Commander, Task Force 134 and Commander, Task Force 144 (CTF134/144) excelled in support of United States Strategic Command’s flawless execution of its global mission of strategic deterrence. The Task Forces provided an essential leg to our nation’s strategic triad and were a key element of our deterrent mission. The deterrence mission executed by Task Force 134 and 144 during this period underpinned Department of Defense strategy and provided the backbone and foundation for our political leadership in execution of national security policy. Providing credibility to the deterrent force, Commander Task Force 134 and 144 demonstrated high standards in day-to-day operations, in exercises, in training, and every time they went to sea. By their truly distinctive achievements, unrelenting perseverance, and unfailing devotion to duty, the officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian employees of Commander Task Force 134 and Commander, Task Force 144 reflected credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The MUC as a unit award is generally considered to be comparable to a Bronze Star for individuals. Apparently, the boomer force has done as much for our nation's defense as Sub School and SUPSHIP Groton did earlier.

I don't think I'll hold my breath for the attack submarine force to be similarly rewarded. Even though I'm always happy to see Submariners get more chest candy, I can't help having the feeling that this is just more evidence of the "everyone gets a trophy!" mentality that's been sneaking into the Navy over the last couple of decades.