COMDTINST M12451.1C — Coast Guard Civilian Awards Manual

COMDTINST M12451.1C governs policy and procedures for granting monetary and honorary awards to Coast Guard civilian employees.

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  • Publication number: COMDTINST M12451.1C
  • Title: COAST GUARD CIVILIAN AWARDS MANUAL
  • Date: 4/2/2019
  • Proponent: CG-12

View COMDTINST M12451.1C on armypubs.army.mil


The manual covers honorary, monetary, time-off, quality step increase, performance, career service, and retirement recognition awards. It requires specified nomination, justification, routing, approval, funding, and presentation processes.

Applies to: All Coast Guard commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy commandants, assistant commandants, and HQ directors will comply with the provisions of this Manual.

Topics covered

  • Civilian employee awards
  • Special Act Awards
  • On-the-Spot Awards
  • Quality Step Increases
  • Performance awards
  • Career service recognition
  • Retirement recognition

Questions and answers

Who must comply with COMDTINST M12451.1C?

All Coast Guard commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy commandants, assistant commandants, and HQ directors will comply with the provisions of this Manual. (paragraph 2)

When must monetary award submissions be made?

Monetary awards are subject to availability of funds, and must be submitted within 90 days of the contribution being recognized (or as soon as funds are available) to ensure timely employee recognition. (paragraph 4)

How many Special Act Awards can an employee receive in one period?

There is no limit to the number of Special Act Awards an employee may receive in any given period, however, only one award can be processed within a pay period. (paragraph 1)

Are repeat awards for the same accomplishment allowed?

Repeat awards for the same accomplishment or contribution are prohibited and care shall be taken to ensure that they are not automatically granted. (paragraph 8)

What happens to late or incomplete award nominations?

Late submissions, nominations that are incomplete, or are not endorsed appropriately will not be accepted. (paragraph 1)

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