Air Force Small Arms Expert Mini-Ribbon

Instituted: 1962 Criteria: Qualification as expert with either the M-16 rifle or standard Air Force issue handgun. Devices: Bronze Star Authorized on August 28, 1962. Awarded to Air Force personnel who, after Jan. 1, 1963, qualify as Expert with either the M16 rifle or issue handgun on the Air Force qualification course or on a prescribed course or who completes the Combat Rifle Program. The ribbon is only awarded once regardless of how many times an individual qualifies as “Expert.” A bronze star device is added (only once) if the recipient meets the award criteria with both the rifle and handgun.