CMP Offers Distinguished Marksman Badge for Disabled Competitors
October 13, 2023
By Ashley Dugan, CMP Staff Writer
As an ambassador of marksmanship for all citizens and a constant resource for those wishing to get involved in the sport, the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) has designed several opportunities for individuals to achieve success on the range – including those with debilitating conditions.
As part of its role in the marksmanship community, the CMP is appointed the honor of distributing Distinguished Badges, the highest individual awards authorized by the U. S. Government for excellence in marksmanship competition. Individuals earn a badge after firing in Excellence-In-Competition (EIC) events and earning at least 30 EIC points and other requirements in rifle, pistol, smallbore and other disciplines.
In 2019, the CMP introduced the Distinguished Marksman Badge, which allows competitors with a permanent disability or impairment that requires the use of adaptive firing positions, equipment or techniques to become eligible to earn the necessary credit points towards a badge in EIC events.
The first Distinguished Marksman EIC points were awarded in 2022, with multiple marksmen earning their own points ever since. The program is open to men and women wounded in service, those born with incapacitating conditions and all others who would like to compete but need extra support on the firing line.
To earn points toward a Distinguished Marksman Badge, simply compete in any EIC event conducted by the CMP or sanctioned by the CMP at a local club. Match directors of each competition must be made aware of competitors firing in the Distinguished Marksman Program and turn in match scores of those competitors in order for Distinguished Marksman EIC points to be awarded.
Marksmanship within a safe and controlled setting is an excellent activity for individuals of virtually any age or experience level and is the perfect hobby for those who love unique and fun challenges. If you may be interested in marksmanship competition but aren’t sure where to start, CMP staff members are available to help in any way possible – always ready to answer questions as well as to provide outlets for anyone interested in firearm safety and competition.
Badge #1 is still out there! Claim it by getting started on your own Marksman Badge journey today. Visit the CMP website at https://thecmp.org/competitions/distinguishedbadges/distinguished-marksman-badge/ to learn more. Individuals with questions on how to get involved with Distinguished Marksman qualifying events or Match Directors/Clubs that would like more information may also contact CMP Program Coordinator Amy Cantu at acantu@thecmp.org or (419) 635-2141, ext. 602.
Greetings,
There is a young man in our church named Oliver that was born without legs. He has had difficulty and has almost given up.
I am retired…I have all the guns he should be require to participate…and I want to help restore that which God gives all of us..
Please let me know more.
Best regards,
Norm McLaury – Alaska
Norm,
I’ll have Amy, our Programs staff member that coordinates the Marksmanship Badge, reach out to you with more information.
Thanks,
Christine
Has Distinguished Marksman Badge #1 and any more been awarded yet (January 11, 2024)?
I want to run the article in MMA Times and want to make sure it is current.
Ray,
I don’t believe so but I’ll have Amy contact you via email with details on the program.
Thanks,
Christine
Can a 25 yard indoor range be certified to be Cmp affiliated ?
David,
I’ll forward your inquiry onto our Club Affiliations Department.
Thanks,
Christine
Thanks Christine we have a real nice and safe 25 yard range I would like to see it used for some thing more formal than just plinking. We give concealed carry classes when needed. I’m an old bullseye shooter. One of my best memories is the first relay at Perry, the breeze in your face. It always gave me chills. Stand by for Colors. The cannon echos across halloed ground. Used to love to go to Perry.
David, I’m also forwarding your inquiry onto our Pistol Pro, Jim Henderson, and he may be able to help assist you and let you know what matches you could sanction. And mornings at Perry are the best!
Thanks,
Christine