I got my first NAM after I had been a Chief for two years. I knew that I had been put in for one as an E-6, but after a BAM and refusing to re-enlist before I transferred, I didn't even get a command plaque when I transferred. 4 and half years after my first NAM, I had been awarded two more, plus an EOT NCM. I guess my second boat liked me better than the first (I've never put myself in for an award). BTW, I worked very hard to recognize all my guys. Probably one of my proudest moments was when I went to one of my guy's wedding in Texas. His parents had an award citation framed on their wall (I don't remember if it was a NAM or not). They asked if I could explain what some of it meant. I told them I'd love to since I wrote it. The pride they displayed was overwhelming.