Well, I guess the Marines are the only ones that actually require you to EARN ribbons, medals, and breast insignia. It took a year and a half to get my Aircrew wings, and my first medal/ribbon was my good conduct medal, that's three years of good behavior for that one!
Yep, same as the AF was for good conduct medal. AF Air Crew wings take a while too, but I don't know exactly how long it is nowadays. AF gives a ribbon for small arms expert instead of the metal ones the Army and USMC get, but it is earned. Anyone who enlists now, regardless of branch of service gets the National Defense medal. I think over six months of intense training for the Intel skill badge is earning it. It may be more mental than physical, but some don't make it and they are kicked out of the AF. I think it is ridiculous to get a ribbon just for completing basic training, though. I guess it was cheaper than giving them a stripe. I have great respect for the Marines, but I would not say that they are the only branch that EARNS ribbons, medals, and breast insignia. Being a Navy brat and growing up around Sailors and Marines, I respect them. Having served in the Air Force and Army, I respect them, too.
