The U.S. Army dress uniform is a powerful symbol of service, honor, and dedication. For 2024, understanding the components of this uniform, especially the array of badges and insignia, is crucial for both service members and those interested in military protocol. These badges are not merely decorative; they represent significant achievements, qualifications, and roles within the Army. This guide delves into the various badges authorized for wear on the army dress uniform in 2024, providing detailed descriptions, symbolism, and criteria for each.
Air Assault Badge
Description: The Air Assault Badge, rendered in oxidized silver, measures 3/4 inch in height and 1 17/32 inches in width. It depicts a helicopter, viewed frontally, superimposed on a pair of stylized wings that are displayed and curve inward.
Symbolism: The wings are emblematic of flight, and in conjunction with the helicopter, they symbolize the specialized skills and qualifications necessary for air assault landings using rotary-wing aircraft.
Award Eligibility: Commanders at the division and separate brigade level award this badge to individuals who successfully complete an air assault training course. This course must adhere to the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command’s (TRADOC) Standardized Air Assault Core Program of Instruction. Eligibility also extends to personnel who completed the Standard Air Assault Course while assigned to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) from April 1, 1974, onward.
Date Approved: The Air Assault Badge received approval from the Chief of Staff of the Army on January 18, 1978. This approval retroactively authorized Army-wide wear for individuals who completed Air Assault training after April 1, 1974. Prior to this, it was known as the Airmobile Badge, authorized for local wear by the 101st Airborne Division Commander starting April 1, 1974.
Subdued Badge: Subdued versions are available in both metal (black) and cloth (olive drab base with black embroidery).
Miniature Badge: A miniature version is authorized, measuring 7/16 inch in height and 7/8 inch in width.
Army Astronaut Device and Badges
Description: The Army Astronaut Device is a gold-colored, stylized shooting star with three contrails, intersecting an elliptical orbit saltirewise. This device is affixed to existing Army aviation badges.
Symbolism: The design mirrors that of Army Aviation badges (aviator, flight surgeon, crewmember, etc.), with the addition of the shooting star and elliptical orbit. The shooting star traversing the elliptical orbit represents space and the operational domain of an astronaut.
Award Eligibility: An Astronaut Badge, specific to the underlying aviation badge held, is awarded to individuals already possessing an Army Aviation Badge as per AR 600-8-22, who complete at least one operational space mission (exceeding 50 miles above Earth). Astronauts without a prior aviation badge receive the crewmember badge with the astronaut device.
Date Approved: The Army Astronaut Device was approved on May 17, 1983.
Subdued Badges: Subdued badges exist in metal (black with brown device) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery, brown astronaut device).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature astronaut badges are authorized for each type of astronaut badge.
Army Aviator Badges
Description: These oxidized silver badges are 3/4 inch in height and 2 1/2 inches in width. They feature the shield from the coat of arms of the United States superimposed on a pair of displayed wings. A star above the shield denotes a Senior Army Aviator, and a star encircled by a laurel wreath signifies a Master Army Aviator.
Symbolism: The wings represent flight and the skills associated with it. The shield of the U.S. coat of arms symbolizes loyalty and dedication to duty.
Award Eligibility:
- Army Aviator: Requires completion of prescribed training and proficiency tests, and official designation as an aviator in orders as per AR 600-105.
- Senior Aviator: Aviators medically and instrument qualified may apply after seven years of rated aviation service, 84 months in operational flying assignments, and 1,000 flight hours.
- Master Aviator: Senior Aviators, also medically and instrument qualified, can apply after fifteen years of rated aviation service, 120 months in operational flying assignments, and 2,000 flight hours.
Date Approved: The Aviator and Senior Aviator Badges were approved on July 27, 1950, and the Master Aviator Badge on February 12, 1957.
Subdued Badges: Subdued versions are available in metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badges are authorized in various sizes for Aviator, Senior Aviator, and Master Aviator.
Army Staff Identification Badge
Description: The badge features the Coat of Arms of the United States in gold, with white and red enameled stripes on the shield, and a blue enameled chief and sky of the glory. This is superimposed on a five-pointed black enameled star, with three green enameled laurel leaves in each reentrant angle. The star is 3 inches in diameter for Chiefs and former Chiefs of Staff, and 2 inches for other recipients.
Symbolism: Based on the General Staff insignia, it uses a black star instead of a Silver Star. Laurel leaves signify achievement.
Award Eligibility: Awarded for one year of service assigned to the Army General Staff, as per Chief of Staff Regulation 672-5. Authorized for officers and E-9s in designated positions at Headquarters, Department of the Army. Civilian personnel (GS-11 and above) can receive a lapel button after one year of service.
Date Approved: Proposed in 1931 by General MacArthur, designed by the Office of the Quartermaster General, and approved on July 28, 1933. Retroactive to June 4, 1920. Sergeants Major authorized in 1978, Warrant Officers in 1979, and civilian lapel buttons in 1982. Renamed from Army General Staff Identification Badge to Army Staff Identification Badge by General Wickham.
Subdued Badge: Not authorized in subdued versions.
Miniature Badge: A miniature badge, 1 ½ inches in diameter with 7 stripes in the chief, was authorized in 1989.
Aviation Badges
Description: These oxidized silver badges are 3/4 inch in height and 2 1/2 inches in width. They feature a shield with horizontal lines and the coat of arms of the United States on a pair of displayed wings. Similar to Aviator badges, a star and laurel wreath denote Senior and Master Aviation Badges, respectively.
Symbolism: Design is similar to Army Aviator Badges but substitutes the U.S. coat of arms for the shield of the coat of arms. Wings symbolize flight skills, and the U.S. coat of arms represents loyalty and duty.
Special Policy:
- Retroactive date: January 1, 1947.
- Master and Senior Aviation Badges are for permanent wear. Basic Aviation Badge can be temporary or permanent. Officers awarded while enlisted can wear permanently.
- Permanent awards are announced in Permanent Orders.
Award Eligibility: Awarded in degrees:
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Basic Aviation Badge – Permanent Award:
- Flying status as crewmember (AR 600-106) or waiver from HQDA, 48 flight hours, or school trained.
- Aerial observers, Joint Service Airborne Command Post operational team members. Temporary wear authorized until duty completion or permanent award criteria met.
- Incapacitated from flight duty due to enemy wounds or aircraft accident (not personally responsible), or 15 combat missions under fire.
- Soldiers completing AIT in CMF 67, 93, MOS 71P, and previously CMF 28, including 68 series MOS’. Specific MOS qualifications based on AIT completion dates.
- Meets Army Astronaut Device criteria but not authorized Aviator, Flight Surgeon, or Aviation Badge.
- Permanent award upon AIT completion in CMF 93 MOS’. Specific MOS qualifications based on AIT completion dates.
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Basic Aviation Badge – Temporary Award: Unit commanders with assigned Army aircraft can authorize temporary wear for qualified in-flight duty personnel.
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Senior Aviation Badge: 7 years on flight status in principal duty (AR 600-106). 10-year experience qualification possible for CMF 67, 93, MOS 71P, 68 series MOS’, Warrant Officer MOS’ 150A, 151A, and MOS 00Z, and related fields. Criteria include frequent flights, credit for PCS/TDY transit time, and credit for career progression assignments (Drill Sergeant, Recruiter, etc., up to 36 months). Retroactive date: April 7, 1983. Demonstrated competence and unit commander recommendation required.
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Master Aviation Badge: 15 years on flight status in principal duty (AR 600-106). 17-year experience qualification possible for CMF 67, 93, MOS 71P, 68 series MOS’, Warrant Officer MOS’ 150A, 151A, and MOS 00Z, and related fields. Criteria similar to Senior badge, plus grade of E-6 or higher, unit commander recommendation, and endorsement by higher command. Retroactive date: January 1, 1976; April 7, 1983 for specific MOS/Warrant Officer/MOS 00Z.
Date Approved: Originally approved as Aircraft Crew Member Badge in 1962, changed to Aviation Badges in 2000, retroactive to 1947.
Subdued Badges: Subdued versions are metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badges are authorized in various sizes for Basic, Senior, and Master Aviation Badges.
Career Counselor Badge
Description: An oxidized silver badge, 1 7/8 inches in height. It features an eagle with outstretched wings standing on the intersection of a spear (left) and a musket with bayonet (right), all enclosed in a horizontal oval frame. The lower half of the frame is a scroll inscribed “CAREER COUNSELOR,” and the upper half consists of olive branches meeting at the top. Areas between elements are pierced.
Symbolism: Spear and musket (from Department of the Army seal) symbolize Army’s national defense role and Career Counselor’s specialized services. Eagle is a national emblem, olive branches suggest peacetime and wartime service.
Award Eligibility:
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Wear authorized for enlisted personnel in PMOS 79S (Career Counselor) positions. Officers can wear if they held a retention PMOS and met criteria while enlisted.
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Retroactive to January 1, 1972, for soldiers with PMOS 79S, 79D, OOR (Retention NCO), or OOE (In-Service Recruiter/Transition NCOI RC Career Counselor) meeting permanent award criteria.
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Battalion-level commanders or higher announce uniform authorization.
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Temporary Wear:
- Less than 12 months as PMOS 79S Career Counselor post-Army Retention Course.
- Less than 12 months as Active Guard/Reserve (AGR) Career Counselor (PMOS 79S).
- Army Reserve Reenlistment NCOs (see below).
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Permanent Wear:
- Regular Army: 12 months as PMOS 79S Career Counselor post-resident Army Retention Course.
- USAR/ARNG: Formal resident training and 12 months in MTOE/TDA retention-coded position (PMOS 79S or prior retention MOS).
- RA, USAR, ARNG: Secondary MOS 79S from formal resident training and 12 consecutive months in valid MTOE/TDA 79S position.
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Colonel-rank commanders or higher can authorize permanent wear for qualified MOS 79S enlisted personnel completing probationary period. DA Form 7347 (Career Counselor Badge Certificate) presented. Badge withdrawn if relieved from Career Counselor duties (AR 601-280 Appendix B).
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Commanding Generals of Army General Officer Commands and Commander, AR-HRC, can authorize wear for Army Reserve enlisted Reenlistment NCOs completing resident or nonresident Reserve Component Recruiting Course. Temporary wear, withdrawn upon ceasing Reenlistment NCO duties.
Date Approved: Established October 1971.
Subdued Badge: Cloth subdued badge only. Olive green base with black eagle, lightning, spear, scroll letters/border. Laurel wreath and scroll background in olive drab.
Miniature Badge: Miniature badge 1 3/8 inches in height authorized.
Combat Action Badge (CAB)
Description: A silver badge, 2 inches (5.08 cm) wide, featuring an oak wreath supporting a rectangle with a bayonet surmounting a grenade, all in silver. Stars at the top indicate subsequent awards (one to three stars for second to fourth awards).
Symbolism: In line with the Warrior Ethos, the CAB recognizes Soldiers who personally engage the enemy or are engaged by the enemy in combat. Bayonet and grenade represent active combat. Oak wreath symbolizes strength and loyalty.
Award Eligibility: Refer to Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.
Date Approved: Approved May 2, 2005, by the Chief of Staff, Army. Established by HQDA Letter 600-05-1, June 3, 2005. Approval authority changes approved June 24, 2008.
Subdued Badge: Subdued badges are authorized in flat black metal finishes.
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badge, 13/16 inch (2.06 cm) wide, for mess uniforms. Miniature badge, 1 3/16 inches (3.02 cm) wide, also authorized as alternative size.
Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB)
Description: A silver and enamel badge, 1 inch high and 3 inches wide. It features an infantry musket on a light blue bar with silver border, over an elliptical oak wreath. Stars at the top of the wreath indicate subsequent awards (one to three stars for second to fourth awards).
Symbolism: Blue bar is Infantry branch color. Musket (1795 model Springfield Arsenal musket) adapted from Infantry insignia, official branch insignia since 1924. Oak symbolizes steadfastness, strength, and loyalty.
Award Eligibility: Awarded to Colonels and below with infantry or special forces MOS, performing duty in infantry/special forces unit (brigade or smaller) during active ground combat since December 6, 1941. Expanded to Command Sergeants Major of infantry battalions/brigades from December 1, 1967. One award per conflict area (Vietnam, Laos, Dominican Republic, Korea post-1969, El Salvador, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia), regardless of multiple deployments. Specific criteria and dates for each conflict in AR 600-8-22.
Date Approved: Approved by Secretary of War on October 7, 1943, announced in War Department Circular 269, October 27, 1943. Stars for subsequent awards approved February 8, 1952, removing one-time award limit.
Subdued Badges: Subdued versions are metal (black finish) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery for rifle, wreath, stars, bar border).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badge, 1 1/4 inches long, for mess uniforms. Miniature badge, 1 3/4 inches, also authorized as alternative size.
Combat Medical Badge (CMB)
Description: An oxidized silver badge, 1 inch high and 1 ½ inches wide. It features a stretcher crossed by a caduceus, surmounted by a Greek cross, all on an elliptical oak wreath. Stars indicate subsequent awards (one to four stars for second to fifth awards, positioned at top and sides).
Symbolism: Medical Corps insignia with Greek cross (Geneva Convention) signifies medical skills. Stretcher alludes to field service. Oak symbolizes steadfastness, strength, and loyalty.
Award Eligibility: Awarded to Army Medical Department, Naval Medical Department, Air Force Medical Service, or Special Forces Medical Sergeant personnel (Colonel or below) assigned/attached to medical unit (company or smaller) organic to infantry/special forces unit during active ground combat since December 6, 1941. One award per conflict area (Vietnam, Laos, Dominican Republic, Korea post-1969, El Salvador, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia). Specific eligibility criteria in AR 600-8-22.
Date Approved: Approved January 29, 1945. One-time award rescinded in 1951, subsequent awards and stars approved.
Subdued Badges: Subdued versions are metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery for stretcher, caduceus, cross, wreath, stars).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badge, 19/32 inch high, authorized.
Distinguished Pistol Shot and Rifleman Badges
Description:
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PISTOL SHOT: Gold badge, 2 43/64 inches (6.79 cm) high. Bar (15/32 inch high, 1 1/2 inches wide) with shield of stars and stripes and “U.S. ARMY.” Pendant (gold shield shape, 1 1/4 inches high, 1 3/64 inches wide) with enameled target between “DISTINGUISHED” and “PISTOL SHOT.”
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RIFLEMAN: Gold badge, 2 3/16 inches (5.56 cm) high. Bar (9/16 inch high, 1 13/16 inches wide) with shield of stars and stripes and “U.S. ARMY.” Pendant (gold shield shape, 1 1/2 inches high, 1 13/32 inches wide) with enameled target between “DISTINGUISHED” and “RIFLEMAN.”
Award Eligibility: Awarded for preeminent achievement in target practice firing with military rifle or pistol. 30 credit points earned in authorized excellence in competition matches. Criteria in AR 350-6.
Date Approved: Distinguished Rifleman Badge approved January 3, 1887 (General Order 1). Distinguished Pistol Shot Badge approved April 29, 1903 (General Order 65).
Subdued Badges: Not authorized.
Miniature Badges: Not authorized.
Diver Badges
Description:
- Scuba: Silver badge, 1 inch high, scuba diver’s hood with mask, mouthpiece, breathing tubes. 31/32 inch wide.
- Salvage: Silver diving helmet, 1 inch high, “S” (3/8 inch high) on chest plate. 23/32 inch wide.
- Second Class: Silver diving helmet, 1 inch high. 23/32 inch wide.
- First Class: Silver diving helmet, 15/16 inch high, between two dolphins (1 inch high). 1 3/32 inches wide.
- Master: Silver diving helmet, 7/8 inch high, in front of trident (1 1/4 inches high) between two dolphins. 1 3/32 inches wide.
Symbolism:
- Scuba: Scuba equipment represents basic diver skills.
- Salvage: Diver’s helmet (basic equipment) and “S” for salvage activities (harbor clearance, blasting, removal, propeller replacement).
- Second Class: Diver’s helmet (basic equipment).
- First Class: Diver’s helmet and dolphins suggest diving function without deep-sea helmet.
- Master: Trident added to First Class design, symbolizes marine spearhead, valor, and strength.
Award Eligibility: Requirements in AR 611-75. Progressive requirements for each level.
Date Approved: Second Class, Salvage, First Class, Master Diver Badges approved February 15, 1944. Scuba approved May 1, 1969.
Subdued Badges: Subdued versions are metal (black for all) and cloth (olive green base with black outlines, olive drab background).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badges authorized in various sizes for Scuba, Salvage, Second Class, First Class, and Master Diver.
Drill Sergeant Identification Badge
Description:
- METAL: Gold plated metal and enamel, 2 inches (5.08 cm) wide, 1 51/64 inches (4.56 cm) high. Flaming torch above breast plate and jupon, rattlesnake on green background with scroll “THIS WE’LL DEFEND” in black letters, 13 black stars (7 left, 6 right).
- EMBROIDERED: Subdued colors, 2 3/4 inches (6.99 cm) wide, 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) high. Olive drab square background (3 1/2 inches wide/high).
Symbolism: Elements from U.S. Army Flag and Department of the Army Seal (snake, motto, scroll, armor), torch of liberty, 13 stars.
Award Eligibility:
- Commandant of Drill Sergeant Course awards upon course completion and assignment as drill sergeant in training command. Permanent wear authorized by Commandant memorandum. Officers can wear if permanently awarded while enlisted.
- Badge revocation possible if removed from drill sergeant position for cause. Authority delegated to commanders of U.S. Army training centers and drill sergeant school commandants, further delegable to Colonel-rank commanders with authority to remove drill sergeants and withdraw skill qualification identifier (SQI) “X.”
Wear: Nonsubdued metal badge (right side, AR 670-1) and subdued embroidered cloth badge (utility uniforms/field jackets, right breast pocket). Subdued Drill Sergeant Badge worn right of Career Counselor Badge on utility uniforms.
Background: Metal badge originally approved as trainer personnel insignia in 1958, authorized for drill sergeants in 1964 (metal and embroidered, full color and subdued embroidered). Subdued insignia mandatory on field clothing from 1969, full color embroidered Drill Sergeant Identification Badge no longer authorized.
Driver and Mechanic Badge
Description: White metal (silver, nickel, rhodium), 1 inch high/wide, cross patee with disk wheel and tire at center.
Qualification Bars: OPERATOR – S (special mechanical equipment), MECHANIC (automotive/allied vehicles), DRIVER – A (amphibious vehicles), DRIVER – M (motorcycles), DRIVER – T (tracked vehicles), DRIVER – W (wheeled vehicles).
Background: Originally authorized by War Department Circular 248, July 28, 1942. Awarded to drivers, mechanics, special equipment operators for high skill in vehicle operation/maintenance. Specific requirements in AR 600-8-22.
Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB)
Description: Oxidized silver badge, 15/16 inch high, 1 7/16 inches wide. Stretcher crossed by caduceus, surmounted by Greek cross.
Symbolism: Medical Corps insignia with Greek cross (Geneva Convention) signifies medical skills and expertise. Stretcher alludes to field medical service.
Award Eligibility: Recognizes Army medical personnel for high technical skill in field medical functions. Awarded based on proven skill and performance, successful completion of all tests in Army Regulations.
Date Approved: Approved June 18, 1965.
Subdued Badges: Subdued versions are metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery for stretcher, caduceus, cross).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badge, 9/16-inch high, authorized.
Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB)
Description: Silver and enamel badge, 7/16 inch high, 3 inches wide. Infantry musket on light blue bar with silver border.
Symbolism: Blue bar is Infantry branch color. Musket (1795 model Springfield Arsenal musket) adapted from Infantry insignia, official branch insignia since 1924.
Award Eligibility: Personnel must meet Department of the Army testing requirements and have MOS within Career Management Field 11 (Infantry) or 18 (Special Forces), except MOS 18D.
Date Approved: Approved by Secretary of War on October 7, 1943, announced in War Department Circular 269, October 27, 1943.
Subdued Badge: Subdued versions are metal (black finish) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery for rifle and bar border).
Miniature Badge: Miniature badge, 1 3/4 inches long, 3/8 inch high, and dress miniature badge, 1 1/4 inches long, 3/16 inch high, authorized.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Badges
Description: Silver badge, 1 3/4 inches high. Shield with conventional drop bomb (point down) radiating four lightning flashes, within laurel wreath. Senior EOD Badge: basic badge with 7/32 inch silver star on bomb. Master EOD Badge: Senior badge with star surrounded by laurel wreath above shield.
Symbolism: Shield and drop bomb from Bomb Disposal School insignia (1942), used on brassard for bomb disposal personnel. Bomb (point down, live) and shield represent safe disposal of live ordnance by ordnance personnel.
Award Eligibility: Criteria in AR 600-8-22. Requires assignment to TOE/TDA EOD positions and commander recommendation.
- EOD Badge: MOS 55D (enlisted) or 91E (officer), complete instruction, satisfactory performance for 18 months for permanent award.
- Senior EOD Badge: Basic EOD Badge, 36 cumulative months in EOD position post-basic badge (effective May 1, 1989).
- Master EOD Badge: Senior EOD Badge, 60 months in TOE/TDA officer/NCO EOD position post-senior badge.
Date Approved: EOD Specialist and Supervisor Badges approved July 31, 1957. Master EOD Badge authorized June 1969. Supervisor badge renamed Senior EOD Badge, Specialist badge renamed EOD Badge in 1969.
Subdued Badge: Subdued versions are metal (black finish) and cloth (olive green base with black wreath, bomb, lightning flashes, shield outline. Olive drab star on bomb for Senior/Master, black wreath and star above for Master).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badge, 7/8 inch wide, authorized.
Flight Surgeon Badges
Description: Oxidized silver badge, 23/32 inch high, 2 1/2 inches wide. Shield with horizontal lines and Staff of Aesculapius on a pair of displayed wings. Star and laurel wreath denote Senior and Master Flight Surgeon, respectively.
Symbolism: Wings symbolize flight skills. Staff of Aesculapius represents healing and medical skills.
Award Eligibility: Awarded to medically qualified Army Medical Corps Officers completing training and requirements in AR 600-105.
Date Approved: Flight Surgeon Badge (originally Aviation Medical Officer Badge) approved December 28, 1956. Senior Flight Surgeon (formerly Flight Surgeon) and Master Flight Surgeon (formerly Senior Flight Surgeon) Badges approved August 12, 1963. Designations changed November 22, 1973.
Subdued Badges: Subdued versions are metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badges authorized in various sizes for Flight Surgeon, Senior Flight Surgeon, and Master Flight Surgeon.
Glider Badge
Description: Oxidized silver badge, 11/16 inch high, 1 1/2 inches wide. Glider (frontal view) superimposed on stylized wings.
Symbolism: Wings symbolize flight, glider symbolizes glider flight skills and qualifications.
Award Eligibility: No longer awarded. Originally for personnel assigned/attached to glider or airborne unit, Airborne Department of Infantry School; completed instruction course, or participated in combat glider landing in enemy territory.
Date Approved: Authorized by War Department Circular No. 220, June 2, 1944.
Subdued Badges: Subdued badge in black metal finish authorized.
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badge, 13/32 inch high, 7/8 inch wide, authorized.
Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge
Description: Silver color metal badge, 2 inches wide, 1 15/32 inches high. Inverted open laurel wreath surmounted by Tomb of the Unknown Soldier front elevation (Peace, Victory, Valor figures), base with “HONOR GUARD” in two lines.
Eligibility:
- Authorized by Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion (Reinforced), 3d U.S. Infantry (The Old Guard), for wear by Guard members during assignment.
- Permanent wear authorized from December 17, 1963, for personnel serving honorably for minimum 9 months (not continuous) in Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, recommended by Commanding Officer, Honor Guard Company, 1st Battalion, 3d U.S. Infantry.
- Complete criteria in AR 600-8-22.
Date Approved: Established September 9, 1957, by Secretary of the Army Wilbur Brucker.
Subdued Badge: Subdued cloth badge authorized. Olive green base with black and olive green embroidery.
Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge
Description:
- Regular Size: Oval silver laurel wreath (2 1/4 inches high, 2 inches wide), shield of the United States (blue enamel chief, white and red enamel stripes) on four gold unsheathed swords (two pale, two saltire, points to chief), gold scroll entwined with blades and grips, “JOINT” (top), “CHIEFS OF STAFF” (bottom) in blue enamel.
- Miniature Size: 1 1/2 inches high, 1 3/8 inches wide. Same design, 9 stripes on shield.
- Lapel Button: 9/16 inch high, 1/2 inch wide. Same design, 5 stripes on shield.
Symbolism: Laurel symbolizes achievement, courage, victory. Swords represent armed might of Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, combined vigilance and readiness.
Award Eligibility: Criteria in JCS Memorandum of Policy (MOP) 142.
Date Approved: Proposed designs submitted February 21, 1963. JCS approved MOP establishing badge on April 2, 1963.
Nuclear Reactor Operator Badges (Obsolete)
(The Army no longer conducts nuclear reactor operations or training. Permanently awarded badges can still be worn. Award authorization terminated October 1, 1990, AR 672-5-1.)
Description:
- Basic: 7/8 inch square centered on two horizontal bars, 3/4 inch diameter disc with Uranus symbol, all silver, 7/8 inch high.
- Second Class Operator: Basic badge (reduced size) on open laurel wreath, 1 inch high. Pierced areas.
- First Class Operator: Basic badge (reduced size) on closed laurel wreath, 1 inch high. Pierced areas.
- Shift Supervisor: First Class Operator Badge design, gold colored metal.
Symbolism: Square (cube) represents nuclear reactor, bars represent control rods, disc represents knowledge/training, sun symbol of energy/power, Uranus symbol of nuclear energy. Laurel wreaths signify achievement. Gold for Shift Supervisor signifies highest achievement.
Award Eligibility: No longer awarded. Basic badge required Nuclear Power Plant Operators Course (AR 350-224), reactor system operation under certified operator. Second Class: 15 shifts on reactor. First Class: 30 trainee shifts, written exam. Shift Supervisor: 80 First Class shifts, 40 trainee Shift Supervisor shifts, written exam.
Date Approved: Approved June 18, 1965.
Subdued Badges: Subdued versions are metal (black, Shift Supervisor brown enamel) and cloth (olive green base, olive drab disc/bars, black wreath/square/device except brown for Shift Supervisor).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badges authorized for all designs, ¾ inch wide.
Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge (OSD Badge)
Description:
- Regular Size: 2 inches diameter. Eagle with horizontal wings grasping three crossed arrows, gold. Shield paleways of thirteen (argent and gules, chief azure) on breast. Gold annulet behind wings with thirteen gold stars above eagle. Green enamel laurel and olive wreath below eagle. Silver sunburst of 33 rays.
- Miniature Badge: 1 1/2 inches diameter. Same design, 9 stripes on shield.
- OSD Lapel Button: 37/64 inch diameter. Same design, 5 stripes on shield.
Symbolism: Elements from Department of Defense seal.
Award Eligibility: Criteria in DOD Directive 1348.13.
Date Approved: Originally approved as National Military Establishment Identification Badge (March 25, 1949). Redesignated Department of Defense Identification Badge (August 28, 1950). Re-established and redesignated Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge (DOD Directive 1348.13, December 20, 1962), authorized for service of one year post-January 13, 1961.
Parachute Rigger Badge
Description: Silver winged hemispherical canopy with conical cords, 1 3/4 inches wide, “RIGGER” band centered.
Symbolism: Winged parachute represents rigging supplies for air drop, packing/repairing personnel and cargo parachutes.
Award Eligibility: Awarded to soldiers completing prescribed course at U.S. Army Quartermaster School, MOS 43E (enlisted) or 401A (warrant). Officers awarded upon course completion (AR 600-8-22).
Date Approved: Approved June 9, 1986, retroactive to personnel completing course post-May 1951.
Subdued Badge: Subdued versions are metal (black finish) and cloth (olive green base with black wings, canopy, ropes, letters. Olive drab band and background).
Miniature Badge: Dress miniature badge, 7/8 inch wide, authorized.
Parachutist Badges
Description: Oxidized silver badge, 1 13/64 inches high, 1 1/2 inches wide. Open parachute on stylized wings. Star and wreath above canopy for Senior and Master Parachutist. Combat jump stars (bronze/gold) superimposed for one to five jumps.
Symbolism: Wings symbolize flight, parachute symbolizes parachute qualifications.
Award Eligibility: Master and Senior Parachutist Badges for excellent character and efficiency.
- MASTER Parachutist: 65 jumps (25 combat equipment, 4 night, 1 jumpmaster night, 5 mass tactical), Jumpmaster Course graduate, 36 months jump status.
- SENIOR Parachutist: 30 jumps (15 combat equipment, 2 night, 1 jumpmaster night, 2 mass tactical), Jumpmaster Course graduate, 24 months jump status.
- PARACHUTIST: Satisfactory proficiency tests in airborne unit/Infantry School Airborne Department, or one combat parachute jump.
Date Approved: Parachutist Badge formally approved March 10, 1941. Senior/Master authorized 1949, announced January 24, 1950 (C-4, AR 600-70).
Subdued Badges: Subdued versions are metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black wings, parachute, star, wreath).
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badges authorized in various sizes for Master, Senior, and Parachutist.
Pathfinder Badge
Description: Gold color metal and enamel badge, 1 3/16 inches high, 1 1/2 inches wide. Gold sinister wing on gold torch with red and gray flames.
Symbolism: Wing suggests flight/airborne capabilities, torch symbolizes leadership/guidance, pathfinder combat skills.
Award Eligibility: Commandant of U.S. Army Infantry School awards to Pathfinder Course graduates.
Date Approved: Badge (felt) originally approved May 22, 1964, replaced by metal and enamel version October 11, 1968.
Subdued Badges: Subdued badge in black metal finish authorized.
Miniature Badges: Dress miniature badge, 11/16 inch high, 7/8 inch wide, authorized.
Physical Fitness Badge
Description: Cloth badge. Dark blue disc (1 5/8 inches diameter) edged dark blue. Yellow stylized human figure with arms outstretched in front of U.S. coat of arms (six stars, thirteen stripes). Brittany blue band “PHYSICAL FITNESS” (top), “EXCELLENCE” (bottom), stars on sides, navy blue. Navy blue border (1/8 inch). Overall diameter 2 5/8 inches.
Symbolism: Inner shield alludes to U.S. coat of arms. Human figure emphasizes personnel fitness and physical ability.
Award Eligibility: Awarded to soldiers scoring minimum 290 on Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and meeting AR 600-9 weight control requirements. Retained with minimum passing APFT score and weight standards.
Date Approved: Established June 25, 1986, effective October 1, 1986.
Wear Policy: Cloth badge only, physical fitness uniform only. Centered on left side above breast of physical training T-shirt or sweatshirt.
Ranger Tab
Description: Cloth tab, Army green uniform. 2 3/8 inches wide, black embroidered background, yellow embroidered border and letters. Subdued version: olive drab background/border, black letters. Metal replica for mess uniforms.
Symbolism: Colors perpetuate former ranger shoulder sleeve insignia (deep blue, yellow).
Award Eligibility:
- Commandant of U.S. Army Infantry School awards to Ranger Course graduates.
- Commander, U.S. Total Army Human Resources Command (HRC)/AR-HRC awards to: World War II Ranger Battalion members (1st-6th Bn, 5307th Composite Unit/Merrill’s Marauders) awarded CIB; Korean Conflict 8th Army Ranger Company members awarded CIB; Ranger Training Command Ranger Course graduates.
Date Approved: Cloth tab approved November 6, 1950. Wear authorized January 23, 1953 (Change 2, AR 600-70). Metal replica approved November 25, 1984.
Subdued Tab: Olive drab background/border, black letters embroidered. No subdued metal.
Miniature Badges: Metal badge for Army blue/white uniform and green shirt (1 5/32 inches wide, black enameled background, gold letters/border). Dress miniature (mess/dress uniforms, 13/16 inch wide).
Special Forces Tab
Description: Cloth tab, Army green uniform. 3 1/4 inches wide, teal blue embroidered background/border, yellow embroidered letters. Subdued version: olive drab background/borders, black letters. Metal Special Forces Badge for mess/dress uniforms and green shirt.
Symbolism: Colors same as Special Forces Groups shoulder sleeve insignia.
Award Eligibility:
- Commander, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center (USAJFKSWC) awards to Special Forces Qualification Course or Special Forces Officer Course graduates.
- Awarded to active duty, Reserve Components active status, retired status, or honorably discharged personnel meeting AR 600-8-22 criteria.
Date Approved: Cloth tab approved June 17, 1983. DA Message 061300Z, October 1983 announced criteria, wear policy. Metal replica approved November 25, 1984.
Subdued Tab: Olive drab background/border, black letters embroidered. No subdued metal.
Miniature Badges: Metal badge for Army blue/white uniform and green shirt (1 9/16 inches wide, teal blue enameled background, gold letters/border). Dress miniature (mess/dress uniforms, 1 inch wide).
U.S. Army Recruiter Badge
Description: Silver or gold color metal device, 2 1/8 inches (5.40cm) high. Circular band “U.S. ARMY” (left), “RECRUITER” (right) between green enamel borders, silver letters, three five-pointed stars (bottom center). Eagle perched inside band (bottom center), wings raised vertically over band, flaming torch diagonally between wings.
Symbolism: Circular band alludes to continuous need for quality recruits. Eagle represents federal authority. Wings and torch symbolize advancement opportunities through Army education/training.
Background: Originally approved November 7, 1966. Design modified October 1, 1974. Detachable stars in 1975. Reduced size and sapphire star for gold badge approved September 1981.
Award Eligibility:
- Basic Recruiter Badge: USAREC personnel designated by CG, USAREC (AR 600-8-22 supplementation). Temporary wear authorized by CG, USAREC. Permanent wear authorized by Commandant, Recruiting and Retention School memorandum (CG, USAREC authorization). Gold achievement stars (one to three) for criteria met by CG, USAREC.
- U.S. Army Gold Recruiter Badge: Criteria met by CG, USAREC. Sapphire achievement stars (one to three) for criteria met by CG, USAREC. Permanent wear authorized by recruiting battalion commanders memorandum (CG, USAREC authorization).
- CG, USAREC, can revoke badge awards.
Subdued Badges:
- Silver: Cloth, olive green base, olive drab band, black borders, scroll, letters, stars, eagle, torch.
- Gold: Cloth, black base, black band/letters, olive drab borders, eagle, torch, stars, spruce green scroll.
U.S. Army Reserve Recruiter Badge (Obsolete)
Description: Metal device, 2 1/4 inches (5.72cm) high. Two circular bands “UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE” (top, clockwise), “RESERVE” (bottom, counterclockwise). U.S. Army Reserve emblem center.
Background: No longer a separate badge. Regular Army and Reserve Component recruiters wear U.S. Army Recruiter Identification Badge (AR 600-8-22).
Weapons Qualification Badges
Description:
- EXPERT: White metal (silver, nickel, rhodium), 1.17 inches high, cross patee with target center, enclosed by wreath.
- SHARPSHOOTER: White metal, 1 inch high, cross patee with target center.
- MARKSMAN: White metal, 1 inch high, cross patee.
Qualification Bars: Rifle, Machinegun, Submachine Gun, Rocket Launcher, Small Bore Pistol, Pistol, Field Artillery Grenade, Mortar, Missile, AA Artillery, Tank Weapons, Carbine, Bayonet, Aeroweapons, Auto Rifle, Flamethrower, Recoilless Rifle, Small Bore Rifle. (Historical bars also listed).
Historical Badge Titles (Pre-1951): Marksman and 2d Class Gunner; Sharpshooter and First Class Gunner; Expert.
Conclusion:
The badges worn on the army dress uniform in 2024 are a testament to the rigorous training, specialized skills, and valor of U.S. Army personnel. From aviation and combat to specialized skills and service recognition, each badge tells a story of dedication and achievement. Understanding these symbols is key to appreciating the depth of experience and commitment within the United States Army. As uniform regulations evolve, particularly concerning the finish of badges as mentioned in the original note about the transition from silver oxide to nickel-plated finishes starting in October 2017, staying informed about these details ensures proper representation and respect for military traditions within the army dress uniform framework in 2024 and beyond.
