Derek and Melissa’s Family
Our adventures, stories, and ramblings.
Adventures | For Derek
Leistungsabzeichen
by Derek—2005.07.13 @ 1029
Literally translated, Leistungsabzeichen means "Performance Badge," and it has become a popular event at the U.S. Army Band, and has garnered enough support to become an approved badge worn on our distinctive blue uniforms.
In order to earn the Leistungsabzeichen, you must meet or exceed the standard set on several events, including a 200m swim, shot-put, 100m dash, rifle marksmanship, and a road march, among others. Seeing other members of the band sporting their Leistungsabzeichen inspired me to earn the award. The good thing is that the events are spread over a years' time and there is no real pressure to perform, unlike the standardized Army Physical Fitness Test which racks my nerves (if you don't pass the APFT, you get kicked out of your job and the Army).
The Leistungsabzeichen has standards based on your age and gender, but the feat doesn't seem impossible to reach. My co-worker, Suzette, agreed to work on the badge with me. I'll post my progress as I work on each event.