NIU ROTC Cadets Earn Foreign Decoration

In November, the NIU ROTC program sent 15 cadets to Macomb, where Western Illinois University’s ROTC program hosted an event with the opportunity to earn a foreign military badge. 

The German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge is a decoration awarded to German soldiers who meet the rigorous physical standards set forth by the Bundeswehr. The award can also be earned by Allied soldiers.  It is one of the few foreign awards allowed for wear on the US dress uniform, making it a highly sought after decoration.

Of the 15 cadets from NIU who attempted to earn the badge, 10 returned wearing the foreign decoration.