Army Materiel Command civilians who have deployed in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom are awarded an AMC civilian campaign pin upon the completion of their tour.

In September 2005, Gen. Benjamin Griffin, commanding general, AMC, signed the policy of awarding the pin into effect.

James DeLoach, human resource specialist, AMC Office of Personnel G1 was responsible for making the pin a reality.

Upon hearing from civilians about their perception of a lackluster procedure for recognition of their time in the desert, DeLoach felt he had to do something to let those civilians know their support is appreciated. In January 2005, he produced the concept, design, policy and plan of implementation of the pin and submitted the project to Griffin for approval.

Designed with the Army campaign medal in mind, DeLoach explained the pin's purpose is to help foster Esprit de Corps.

Thomas Mossey, Systems of Systems Integration, Research, Development and Engineering Command, was one of the first Army civilians at Fort Belvoir to be awarded the pin. Mossey was a member of an eight-person team selected to deploy and work with the Iraqi Ministry of Defense. His mission was to help them set up and establish a logistics infrastructure.

Receiving the pin from Gen. Griffin during a ceremony held at the AMC headquarters building was an honor said Mossey.

Reflecting on his deployment, Mossey said it was very challenging and rewarding.

"It was a good opportunity for me to do something where the Army seemed to think that I was the guy to go over and play a part and just do my role, complete the mission and then come back. It was probably the most rewarding thing I've ever done professionally," said Mossey.

"It is imperative our civilian counterparts feel they are part of this team," said Maureen O. Viall, director, deputy chief of staff for personnel and logistics G-1/G-4. "The awarding of the AMC Civilian Campaign Pin upon completion of a deployment assures our civilian workforce the AMC leadership recognizes their hard work and sacrifices."

The campaign pin may be awarded to AMC civilians who deployed for more than 90 days. For civilians who deployed, served honorably, but came back early due to injury, the pin is automatically awarded. The pin may also be awarded posthumously, said DeLoach.

Over 1800 pins have been sent to AMC major subordinate commands since the policy took effect.