by PA-SGT on Thu Oct 06, 2005 5:06 am
Here is what I found on the ribbon this explains why I have never heard of it, not many Airman make it to the Artic, and it is fairly new. Good Catch
Authorized by the Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force, October 12, 1980.
Before January 6, 1986, the ribbon was awarded to Air Force and Air Force Reserve members credited with completion of an overseas tour on or after September 1, 1980. Air Force and Air Force Reserve members serving as of January 6, 1986, or later are entitled to reflect all Air Force overseas tours credited during their career. A Service member may wear both ribbons, if appropriate. The short tour ribbon takes precedence over the long-tour ribbon when both are worn. Authorized Device: Oak leaf Cluster.
A metallic, bronze, letter "A" worn centered on the Air Force Overseas Ribbon-Short Tour. Awarded to Air Force Active, Reserve and Guard Personnel serving on or after 10 Feb 2002, credited with completion of a short Air Force Overseas tour North of the Artic Circle, regardless of date of tour completion. When worn with Oak Leaf Clusters, place the "A" Device to the wearer's right of the clusters. Wear only one "A" Device on the ribbon. Do not use to represent subsequent awards.