On 11 August 1969, The Commanding General, U.S. Continental Army Command recommended the creation of a medal to be awarded to Reserve personnel that would be the equivalent to the Good Conduct Medal for the Active Army. On 29 January 1970, it was asked by the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, that The Institute of Heraldry (TIOH) give projected designs for the medal to the Secretary of the Army to consider. The Secretary of the Army received the designs in May 1970 and on 3 March 1971, approved the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal.
The achievement of the recipient is symbolized by the star, and the twelve points of the star represent the time spent in continuous meritorious service. A circle of perfection is symbolized by the inner disc with the torch signifying guidance and the laurel indicating honor and glory. One sword for active and one sword which denotes reserve confirm the ever readiness and the two stars represent equality of effort. Patriotism is symbolized by our National colors, the red, white and blue, while the gold denotes merit.
AGR soldiers and officers are not approved for the ARCAM. Enlisted personnel and officers in the grade of Colonel or below can be awarded the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal. Later awards are shown by an oak-leaf cluster being added to the ribbon.
