Yes, certain medals in the U.S. are awarded without much consideration. Mainly because the enlisted ranks get promotion points for medals. Over the years they have just gotten easier to get... Now officers on the other hand hardly get medals. Mainly because they do not get promotion points for them, so the need to have medals is not as high.

I'll give you a great example. I am an officer in the military and about 6 months ago I had several troops (with myself) who went above and beyond the call of duty. They ALL got medals for it. I didn't. :shrug: Not that I care because I'm not in it for the medals but my point is they need them to promote and over time, it has gotten easier.

Same goes for performance reports. Years ago a 5 rating (max) meant you were shit hot. Today, if you don't have a 5 rating and have a 4 you are considered a shit bag. God help you if you have a 3 rating (avg) you'd be getting booted out of the service. It's funny how things evolve.