The American Army Dress Uniform is steeped in tradition and symbolism, meticulously designed to represent the professionalism, heritage, and achievements of its soldiers. A crucial aspect of this uniform is the array of badges and insignia worn, each telling a story of skill, service, and dedication. Understanding these elements is key to appreciating the depth and pride embodied in the American Army dress uniform.
AIR ASSAULT BADGE
The Air Assault Badge, with its oxidized silver finish, is a distinctive mark of soldiers qualified in air assault operations. Measuring 3/4 inch in height and 1 17/32 inches in width, the badge features a helicopter, front view, overlaid on stylized wings that curve inward. This design eloquently symbolizes the unique skills and qualifications required for helicopter-borne assault landings, a critical capability within the modern army. The wings represent flight, while the helicopter specifies the air assault specialization. Awarded by division and brigade commanders, eligibility requires successful completion of the rigorous Air Assault training course standardized by the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command. This badge is also authorized for personnel who completed the Standard Air Assault Course while serving with the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) since April 1, 1974, highlighting its historical connection to elite airmobile units. Approved on January 18, 1978, the Air Assault Badge transitioned from the locally authorized Airmobile Badge of the 101st Airborne Division, becoming a symbol of Army-wide air assault qualification.
ARMY ASTRONAUT DEVICE AND BADGES
Representing the Army’s contribution to space exploration, the Army Astronaut Device is a unique addition to existing aviation badges. This gold-colored device features a stylized shooting star with three contrails, intersecting an ellipse in a saltirewise configuration. When affixed to Army Aviation Badges (Aviator, Flight Surgeon, Crewmember, etc.), it signifies the wearer’s achievement in space missions. The shooting star traversing the elliptical orbit effectively conveys the astronaut’s operational domain beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Eligibility for the Astronaut Badge is granted to individuals already holding an Army Aviation Badge who have completed at least one operational space mission exceeding 50 miles above Earth. For astronauts without prior aviation badges, the crewmember badge is awarded in conjunction with the Astronaut Device. Approved on May 17, 1983, this badge underscores the Army’s presence in space and the specialized skills of its astronaut personnel, adding a futuristic dimension to the dress uniform.
ARMY AVIATOR BADGES
The Army Aviator Badges are prestigious qualifications for Army pilots, available in Basic Aviator, Senior Aviator, and Master Aviator levels, each denoted by subtle variations on the badge. The Basic Army Aviator Badge, an oxidized silver badge measuring 3/4 inch in height and 2 1/2 inches in width, features the shield of the coat of arms of the United States superimposed on a pair of wings. The Senior Army Aviator Badge is distinguished by a star above the shield, while the Master Army Aviator Badge adds a laurel wreath surrounding the star, signifying progressively higher levels of experience and expertise. The wings symbolize flight proficiency, while the shield of the U.S. coat of arms represents loyalty and duty. Eligibility for the Basic Aviator Badge requires completion of training and designation as an aviator. Advancement to Senior Aviator necessitates seven years of rated aviation service, 84 months in operational flying assignments, and 1,000 flight hours. The Master Aviator Badge requires fifteen years of rated aviation service, 120 months in operational flying assignments, and 2,000 flight hours. The Aviator and Senior Aviator Badges were approved on July 27, 1950, with the Master Aviator Badge following on February 12, 1957, marking a tiered system of recognition for Army aviation expertise.
ARMY STAFF IDENTIFICATION BADGE
The Army Staff Identification Badge is a distinctive emblem worn by personnel serving at Headquarters, Department of the Army, reflecting their crucial roles in staff functions. The badge features the Coat of Arms of the United States in gold, with enameled white and red stripes and a blue chief, superimposed on a five-pointed black enameled star. Green laurel leaves are placed in each reentrant angle of the star, symbolizing achievement. The badge is issued in two sizes: a 3-inch diameter star for the Chief of Staff and former Chiefs of Staff, and a 2-inch diameter badge for other awarded personnel. The design draws upon the General Staff insignia, replacing the Silver Star with a black star and adding laurel leaves to indicate accomplishment. Eligibility for the badge requires one year of service assigned to the Army General Staff in authorized positions for officers and E-9s at Headquarters, Department of the Army. Civilian personnel (GS-11 and above) may receive a lapel button after one year of service. Proposed in 1931 by General MacArthur and approved in 1933, the badge’s award was made retroactive to June 4, 1920, with later authorizations for Sergeants Major (1978), Warrant Officers (1979), and civilian personnel (1982), demonstrating its evolving recognition across Army staff roles.
Aviation Badges
Aviation Badges, encompassing Basic, Senior, and Master Aviation Badges, are awarded to Army personnel who are not pilots but perform flight duties. These badges, similar in design to the Army Aviator Badges, feature a shield with horizontal lines and the coat of arms of the United States, overlaid on wings. A star above the shield distinguishes the Senior Aviation Badge, and a laurel wreath around the star denotes the Master Aviation Badge. The design mirrors the Army Aviator Badge, substituting the shield of the coat of arms with the full coat of arms, retaining the symbolism of flight and duty. Eligibility for the Basic Aviation Badge (Permanent Award) includes crewmembers on flying status, aerial observers, and personnel assigned to Joint Service Airborne Command Posts. Temporary Basic Aviation Badges can be authorized for personnel performing in-flight duties within Army units with assigned aircraft. The Senior Aviation Badge requires seven years on flight status (or ten years in specific aviation-related fields), demonstrated competence, and commander recommendation. The Master Aviation Badge demands fifteen years on flight status (or seventeen years in related fields), grade of E-6 or higher, and recommendations through the chain of command. Originally approved as the Aircraft Crew Member Badge in 1962 and redesignated in 2000, these badges recognize essential contributions to Army aviation beyond piloting roles, adding to the diversity of insignia on the dress uniform.
CAREER COUNSELOR BADGE
The Career Counselor Badge recognizes the vital role of enlisted personnel in guiding soldiers’ careers within the Army. This oxidized silver badge, 1 7/8 inches in height, features an eagle with outstretched wings standing on a spear and musket, enclosed within a horizontal oval frame. The lower half of the frame is a scroll inscribed “CAREER COUNSELOR,” while olive branches adorn the upper half. The spear and musket, taken from the Department of the Army seal, symbolize national defense and the diverse career paths within the Army. The eagle represents national authority, and the olive branches suggest service in both peace and war. Eligibility for the badge is primarily for enlisted personnel in PMOS 79S (Career Counselor). Officers who previously held an enlisted retention PMOS may also qualify. Temporary wear is authorized for soldiers with less than 12 months in PMOS 79S or as AGR Career Counselors. Permanent wear requires successful completion of 12 months as a Career Counselor and formal resident training. Established in October 1971, this badge highlights the specialized skills and dedication of career counseling professionals in the Army, representing a commitment to soldier development.
Combat Action Badges
The Combat Action Badge (CAB) is a modern award recognizing soldiers who have directly engaged with or been engaged by the enemy in combat. This silver badge, 2 inches wide, features an oak wreath supporting a rectangle with a bayonet surmounting a grenade. Stars are added above to denote subsequent awards. The bayonet and grenade symbolize active combat engagement, while the oak wreath represents strength and loyalty, aligning with the Warrior Ethos. Eligibility for the CAB is detailed in Army Regulation 600-8-22, focusing on personal engagement with the enemy during combat operations. Approved on May 2, 2005, and formally established in June 2005, the CAB was created to provide specific recognition for soldiers in combat scenarios where the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) or Combat Medical Badge (CMB) criteria are not met, broadening the spectrum of combat recognition on the dress uniform.
COMBAT INFANTRYMAN BADGES
The Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) is one of the most revered badges, specifically for infantrymen who have engaged in ground combat. This silver and enamel badge, 1 inch in height and 3 inches in width, features an infantry musket on a light blue bar with a silver border, placed over an elliptical oak wreath. Stars above the wreath indicate subsequent awards in different conflicts. The blue bar represents the Infantry branch, and the musket is the 1795 Springfield Arsenal musket, the first official U.S. shoulder arm, adopted as the Infantry insignia in 1924. The oak wreath symbolizes steadfastness and strength. Eligibility for the CIB is for personnel in grade Colonel or below with an infantry or special forces MOS, who have performed duty in active ground combat as part of an infantry/special forces unit of brigade or smaller size since December 6, 1941. Only one award is authorized per conflict area, including Vietnam, Korea, Grenada, Panama, and Southwest Asia. Approved on October 7, 1943, and allowing for subsequent awards for different wars from 1952, the CIB is a hallmark of infantry service in combat, deeply respected within the Army tradition and prominently displayed on the dress uniform.
Combat Medical Badges
The Combat Medical Badge (CMB) recognizes medical personnel who have performed medical duties while exposed to enemy fire in combat. This oxidized silver badge, 1 inch in height and 1 ½ inches in width, features a stretcher crossed by a caduceus, surmounted by a Greek cross, all on an oak wreath. Stars indicate subsequent awards. The caduceus and Greek cross, combined with the stretcher, symbolize medical skills in a combat environment, while the oak wreath represents strength and dedication. Eligibility for the CMB is for Army, Navy, Air Force Medical Department personnel, and Special Forces Medical Sergeants (Colonel or below) assigned to medical units of company or smaller size organic to infantry/special forces units during active ground combat since December 6, 1941. Similar to the CIB, only one award is authorized per conflict area. Approved on January 29, 1945, and allowing for subsequent awards from 1951, the CMB honors the bravery and essential service of medical professionals in combat, a critical component of the Army’s mission and visibly recognized on the dress uniform.
DISTINGUISHED PISTOL SHOT AND RIFLEMAN BADGES
Distinguished Pistol Shot and Rifleman Badges are awarded for exceptional marksmanship, recognizing preeminent achievement in target practice with service weapons. The Pistol Shot Badge is a gold badge 2 43/64 inches tall, featuring a bar with a shield of stars and stripes and “U.S. ARMY” inscription, and a pendant with an enameled target and “DISTINGUISHED PISTOL SHOT” text. The Rifleman Badge, slightly smaller at 2 3/16 inches in height, follows a similar design but with “DISTINGUISHED RIFLEMAN” inscription. Eligibility for these badges requires earning 30 credit points in authorized excellence in competition matches, demonstrating a high level of skill and dedication to firearm proficiency, as detailed in AR 350-6. The Distinguished Rifleman Badge was approved in 1887, with the Pistol Shot Badge following in 1903, marking some of the oldest recognitions for skill in the Army, signifying expert-level marksmanship on the dress uniform.
DIVER BADGES
Diver Badges recognize varying levels of underwater expertise within the Army, ranging from Scuba Diver to Master Diver. The Scuba Badge features a scuba diver’s hood, while the Salvage Diver Badge adds the letter “S” to a diving helmet. The Second Class Diver Badge is a basic diving helmet, the First Class Diver Badge includes dolphins flanking the helmet, and the Master Diver Badge adds a trident above the helmet and dolphins. Symbolism varies: the Scuba Badge represents basic scuba skills; the Salvage Badge denotes salvage operations; the helmets represent diving operations generally; dolphins symbolize diving function; and the trident on the Master Badge stands for valor and marine spearheading. Eligibility for each badge level has progressive requirements detailed in AR 611-75, reflecting increasing levels of skill and experience in diving operations. The Second Class, Salvage, First Class, and Master Diver Badges were approved in 1944, with the Scuba Badge added in 1969, recognizing the specialized skills of Army divers and their contributions to underwater operations, represented by these distinctive badges on the dress uniform.
DRILL SERGEANT IDENTIFICATION BADGE
The Drill Sergeant Identification Badge is a prestigious award for Drill Sergeants, recognizing their crucial role in shaping new soldiers. The metal badge, gold plated and enameled, is 2 inches wide and 1 51/64 inches tall, featuring a flaming torch above armor, a rattlesnake with scroll inscribed “THIS WE’LL DEFEND”, and 13 stars on a green background. The design elements are adapted from the U.S. Army Flag and Department of the Army Seal, including the snake, motto, armor, torch of liberty, and 13 stars. Eligibility requires successful completion of the Drill Sergeant course and assignment to a training command. The Commandant of the Drill Sergeant School authorizes permanent wear. The badge can be revoked if a Drill Sergeant is removed for cause. First approved as insignia for trainer personnel in 1958 and specifically for drill sergeants in 1964, the Drill Sergeant Identification Badge is worn on the right side of the uniform, signifying the wearer’s expertise in soldier training and leadership, a mark of distinction on the dress uniform.
DRIVER AND MECHANIC BADGE
The Driver and Mechanic Badge recognizes soldiers’ skills in operating and maintaining Army vehicles. This white metal badge, 1 inch in height and width, features a cross patee with a disk wheel and tire at the center. Qualification bars are added for specific vehicle types: OPERATOR – S (special equipment), MECHANIC (automotive vehicles), DRIVER – A (amphibious), DRIVER – M (motorcycles), DRIVER – T (tracked), and DRIVER – W (wheeled). The badge denotes a high degree of skill in vehicle operation and maintenance, with specific award requirements in AR 600-8-22. Originally authorized in 1942, the Driver and Mechanic Badge is a common sight, representing the Army’s reliance on skilled vehicle operators and mechanics, and their essential contributions to logistical and operational readiness, visibly recognized on the dress uniform.
EXPERT FIELD MEDICAL BADGE
The Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB) is a prestigious award for medical personnel, signifying exceptional technical skill in field medical functions. This oxidized silver badge, 15/16 inch in height and 1 7/16 inches in width, features a stretcher crossed by a caduceus, surmounted by a Greek cross. The design is identical to the Combat Medical Badge but awarded under different criteria. Symbolism remains the same, representing medical expertise in a field setting. Eligibility for the EFMB requires passing rigorous tests prescribed by Army Regulations, demonstrating a high level of medical proficiency under field conditions. Approved in 1965, the EFMB is a challenging and respected badge within the medical community, highlighting advanced field medical skills and recognized with pride on the dress uniform.
EXPERT INFANTRYMAN BADGE
The Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB) is a prestigious badge for infantry and special forces personnel, awarded for mastery of infantry skills. This silver and enamel badge, 7/16 inch in height and 3 inches in width, features an infantry musket on a light blue bar with a silver border. The blue bar represents the Infantry branch, and the musket is the 1795 Springfield Arsenal musket. Eligibility requires meeting Department of the Army testing standards and holding an infantry or special forces MOS (excluding 18D). Approved in 1943, the EIB is a mark of infantry excellence, signifying advanced proficiency in infantry skills and highly valued within the infantry community, proudly worn on the dress uniform.
EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL BADGES
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Badges recognize the highly specialized and dangerous work of EOD personnel. Badges are awarded at three levels: Basic, Senior, and Master EOD Badges, each with increasing complexity. The Basic EOD Badge features a shield with a drop bomb and lightning flashes within a laurel wreath. The Senior EOD Badge adds a silver star on the bomb, and the Master EOD Badge includes a star surrounded by a laurel wreath above the shield. The bomb and shield design originated from the Bomb Disposal School insignia in 1942, symbolizing safe disposal of live ordnance. Eligibility for the Basic EOD Badge requires MOS 55D/91E, prescribed training, and 18 months of satisfactory performance. The Senior EOD Badge requires the Basic badge and 36 cumulative months in an EOD position. The Master EOD Badge requires the Senior badge and 60 months in an EOD position. Approved in 1957 (Basic and Senior) and 1969 (Master), these badges represent the progressive expertise and critical skills of EOD specialists, signifying bravery and technical mastery, and distinctively displayed on the dress uniform.
FLIGHT SURGEON BADGES
Flight Surgeon Badges are awarded to Army Medical Corps officers qualified as flight surgeons, recognizing their specialized medical expertise in aviation. Badges are available in Basic Flight Surgeon, Senior Flight Surgeon, and Master Flight Surgeon. The Basic Flight Surgeon Badge, an oxidized silver badge 23/32 inch in height and 2 1/2 inches in width, features a shield with horizontal lines and the Staff of Aesculapius on wings. The Senior Flight Surgeon Badge adds a star above the shield, and the Master Flight Surgeon Badge includes a laurel wreath around the star. The wings represent aviation, and the Staff of Aesculapius symbolizes medical skills. Eligibility requires medically qualified Army Medical Corps officers to complete prescribed training (AR 600-105). Approved in 1956 as the Aviation Medical Officer Badge and redesignated in 1973, these badges represent the specialized medical support to Army aviation, signifying both medical and aviation expertise, visibly represented on the dress uniform.
Glider Badge
The Glider Badge is a historical badge, no longer awarded, but representing qualification in glider operations during World War II. This oxidized silver badge, 11/16 inch in height and 1 1/2 inches in width, features a glider on stylized wings. The design mirrors the Air Assault Badge, substituting a glider for a helicopter, symbolizing skills in glider-borne operations. Eligibility, during its award period, required assignment to a glider or airborne unit, completion of instruction, or participation in combat glider landings. Approved in 1944 and discontinued, the Glider Badge is a relic of WWII airborne operations, historically significant and potentially seen on veterans’ dress uniforms, representing a bygone era of Army aviation.
GUARD, TOMB OF THE UNKNOWN SOLDIER IDENTIFICATION BADGE
The Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge is a unique and highly prestigious badge awarded to soldiers of the Honor Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This silver badge, 2 inches wide and 1 15/32 inches tall, features an inverted laurel wreath surmounted by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier depiction, with figures of Peace, Victory, and Valor, and “HONOR GUARD” inscription. Eligibility is restricted to members of the Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Permanent wear is authorized for those who serve honorably for at least nine months and are recommended by their commanding officer. Established in 1957, this badge is one of the most selective and revered identification badges in the Army, symbolizing the solemn duty of guarding the Tomb and representing the highest standards of honor and respect on the dress uniform.
JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF IDENTIFICATION BADGE
The Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge recognizes service within the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). The regular size badge features a laurel wreath enclosing the shield of the United States on four gold swords, with a scroll inscribed “JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF”. Miniature and lapel button versions exist with slight design variations. The laurel wreath symbolizes achievement and courage, while the swords represent the combined armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps). Eligibility is defined by JCS Memorandum of Policy (MOP) 142, generally requiring assignment to the JCS. Approved in 1963, this badge signifies service at the highest levels of joint military command, representing inter-service cooperation and strategic leadership, and worn on the dress uniform to denote joint staff assignments.
NUCLEAR REACTOR OPERATOR BADGES
Nuclear Reactor Operator Badges, while no longer awarded, represent a historical aspect of Army nuclear operations. Badges existed in Basic, Second Class Operator, First Class Operator, and Shift Supervisor levels. The Basic badge features the Uranus symbol on a square and bars. Higher levels add laurel wreaths (silver for operator classes, gold for supervisor). The square represents a nuclear reactor, bars represent control rods, and the Uranus symbol refers to nuclear energy. Eligibility for the Basic badge required completion of a Nuclear Power Plant Operators Course. Progressive levels required shifts and examinations. Approved in 1965 and discontinued in 1990, these badges are now historical artifacts, potentially seen on veterans’ dress uniforms, representing a past era of Army nuclear power expertise.
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE IDENTIFICATION BADGE
The Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge recognizes service within the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD). The regular size badge features a gold eagle grasping arrows, a shield on its breast, a gold annulet with stars, and a laurel and olive wreath, all on a silver sunburst. Miniature and lapel button versions have slight variations. Design elements are taken from the Department of Defense seal. Eligibility is defined by DOD Directive 1348.13, generally requiring service within the OSD. Originally approved in 1949 as the National Military Establishment Identification Badge and redesignated in 1962, this badge signifies service at the highest civilian levels of defense leadership, representing policy and oversight roles, and worn on the dress uniform to denote OSD assignments.
PARACHUTE RIGGER BADGE
The Parachute Rigger Badge recognizes soldiers skilled in parachute rigging and maintenance. This silver badge features a winged parachute canopy with cords and a “RIGGER” band. The winged parachute symbolizes rigging supplies for airdrop and parachute packing/repair. Eligibility requires completing the Parachute Rigger course at the U.S. Army Quartermaster School and MOS 43E/401A. Approved in 1986, retroactive to 1951, this badge signifies specialized skills in parachute support, essential for airborne operations, and represented on the dress uniform by this unique badge.
PARACHUTISTS BADGES
Parachutist Badges denote different levels of airborne qualification, including Parachutist, Senior Parachutist, and Master Parachutist Badges. All feature an open parachute on wings. Senior and Master badges add a star and star with wreath, respectively. Small stars can be added to denote combat jumps. The wings and parachute symbolize airborne proficiency. Master Parachutist requires 65 jumps, jumpmaster qualification, and 36 months in jump status. Senior Parachutist requires 30 jumps, jumpmaster course, and 24 months in jump status. Basic Parachutist requires completing proficiency tests or a combat jump. The Parachutist Badge was formally approved in 1941, with Senior and Master badges added in 1949, representing progressive levels of airborne expertise and experience, and proudly worn on the dress uniform.
PATHFINDER BADGE
The Pathfinder Badge recognizes soldiers qualified as Pathfinders, skilled in air traffic control and navigational aid in airborne operations. This gold badge features a sinister wing on a torch with red and gray flames. The wing symbolizes flight and airborne capabilities, while the torch represents leadership and guidance. Eligibility requires successful completion of the Pathfinder Course at the U.S. Army Infantry School. Originally approved in felt in 1964 and as metal and enamel in 1968, the Pathfinder Badge signifies specialized skills in airborne support and navigation, essential for successful air operations, and represented on the dress uniform by this distinctive badge.
PHYSICAL FITNESS BADGE
The Physical Fitness Badge recognizes exceptional physical fitness. This cloth badge features a stylized human figure in front of the U.S. coat of arms on a blue disc, encircled by “PHYSICAL FITNESS EXCELLENCE”. The design emphasizes physical ability in the Army. Eligibility requires a minimum score of 290 on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and meeting weight control standards. Established in 1986, this badge is worn only on the physical fitness uniform, recognizing superior physical condition, although not typically part of the dress uniform, it represents the Army’s emphasis on fitness.
Ranger Tab
The Ranger Tab is a qualification tab, not a badge, but worn on the Army green dress uniform to denote Ranger qualification. This tab is black with yellow “RANGER” letters and border. A subdued version exists for work uniforms. The colors perpetuate a prior Ranger insignia. Eligibility requires successful completion of the Ranger Course at the U.S. Army Infantry School. WWII and Korean War Ranger veterans with a CIB may also be awarded the tab. Approved in 1950, the Ranger Tab signifies elite Ranger training and qualification, a mark of distinction worn on the dress uniform to denote Ranger status.
SPECIAL FORCES TAB
Similar to the Ranger Tab, the Special Forces Tab is a qualification tab worn on the Army green dress uniform, denoting Special Forces qualification. This tab is teal blue with yellow “SPECIAL FORCES” letters and border. A subdued version exists for work uniforms. The colors match Special Forces shoulder sleeve insignia. Eligibility requires successful completion of the Special Forces Qualification Course or Special Forces Officer Course. Certain veterans and honorably discharged personnel may also be eligible. Approved in 1983, the Special Forces Tab signifies elite Special Forces training and qualification, a mark of distinction worn on the dress uniform to denote Special Forces status.
U.S. ARMY RECRUITER BADGE
The U.S. Army Recruiter Badge recognizes the important role of Army recruiters. This badge features a circular band with “U.S. ARMY RECRUITER” inscription, stars, an eagle, and a flaming torch. The circular band represents continuous recruitment needs, the eagle symbolizes federal authority, and the torch represents opportunities in the Army. Basic and Gold Recruiter Badges exist, with achievement stars (gold or sapphire) for performance. Eligibility is for personnel assigned to the U.S. Army Recruiting Command (USAREC), with specific criteria set by CG, USAREC. Originally approved in 1966 and redesigned in 1974, the Recruiter Badge signifies dedication to Army recruitment, an essential function, and is worn on the dress uniform to denote recruiting assignments.
U.S. ARMY RESERVE RECRUITER (OBSOLETE)
The U.S. Army Reserve Recruiter Identification Badge is an obsolete badge. It featured circular bands with “UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE” and “RESERVE” inscriptions, and the U.S. Army Reserve emblem. This badge is no longer in use; all Army recruiters now wear the U.S. Army Recruiter Identification Badge. Historically significant but no longer relevant to current dress uniform regulations.
WEAPONS QUALIFICATION
Weapons Qualification Badges recognize different levels of weapons proficiency: Expert, Sharpshooter, and Marksman. The Expert Badge features a cross patee with a target and wreath. The Sharpshooter Badge features a cross patee with a target. The Marksman Badge is a simple cross patee. Qualification bars are added for specific weapons (Rifle, Machinegun, Pistol, etc.). These badges denote varying degrees of marksmanship skill, with Expert being the highest. The badges and qualification bars represent a long tradition of weapons proficiency recognition in the Army, and are worn on the dress uniform to display marksmanship qualifications.
The badges and insignia of the American Army dress uniform are more than mere decorations; they are visual testaments to the accomplishments, skills, and sacrifices of the soldiers who wear them. Each badge carries a story, contributing to the rich tapestry of Army heritage and the proud image projected by its dress uniform.
