The U.S. Army is renowned for its rich history and tradition, visually represented through its distinctive uniforms and insignia. Among these, Army badges stand out as symbols of achievement, skill, and service. From combat recognitions to expert qualifications, these badges are proudly worn on various uniforms, most notably on the formal Mess Dress Army Uniform. This article delves into the world of U.S. Army badges, providing a detailed guide to their descriptions, symbolism, eligibility, and historical context, optimized for an English-speaking audience interested in military regalia and formal military attire.
AIR ASSAULT BADGE
DESCRIPTION: An oxidized silver badge measuring 3/4 inch in height and 1 17/32 inches in width. It features a helicopter, depicted frontally, overlaid on a pair of stylized wings that are displayed and curve inward.
SYMBOLISM: The wings represent flight, and in conjunction with the helicopter, they symbolize the specialized skills and qualifications required for air assault landings using helicopters.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Commanders of divisions and separate brigades award this badge to individuals who successfully complete an air assault training course, adhering to the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command’s Standardized Air Assault Core Program of Instruction. It is also authorized for those who completed the Standard Air Assault Course while assigned to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) since April 1, 1974.
DATE APPROVED: The Air Assault Badge received approval from the Chief of Staff, Army, on January 18, 1978. This authorized its Army-wide wear for individuals completing Air Assault training after April 1, 1974. It was previously known as the Airmobile Badge, locally authorized by the Commander of the 101st Airborne Division from April 1, 1974.
SUBDUED BADGE: Subdued versions are available in both metal and cloth. The metal badge is black, while the cloth badge features an olive drab base with black embroidered design elements.
MINIATURE BADGES: A miniature version, measuring 7/16 inch in height and 7/8 inch in width, is authorized. These miniature badges are typically worn on formal uniforms such as the mess dress army uniform, providing a scaled-down, elegant representation of the achievement suitable for formal occasions.
ARMY ASTRONAUT DEVICE AND BADGES
DESCRIPTION: This device is a gold-colored stylized shooting star with three contrails, intersecting an ellipse saltirewise. It is designed to be affixed to existing aviation badges.
SYMBOLISM: The design mirrors that of Army Aviation badges (aviator, flight surgeon, crewmember, etc.), with the addition of a shooting star and elliptical orbit to signify space and the astronaut’s operational domain. The shooting star passing through the elliptical orbit represents space and the theater of astronaut operations.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: The Astronaut Badge is awarded to individuals who have already received an Army Aviation Badge as per AR 600-8-22 and have completed at least one operational mission in space (50 miles above Earth). Astronauts without prior aviation badges will receive the crewmember badge.
DATE APPROVED: The Army Astronaut Device was approved on May 17, 1983.
SUBDUED BADGES: Subdued badges are authorized in metal and cloth. The metal badge is black with a brown device, and the cloth badge has an olive green base with black embroidered elements and a brown astronaut device.
MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badges are authorized for each astronaut badge variant, perfect for wear on the mess dress army uniform, ensuring that even in formal settings, astronaut achievements are recognized.
ARMY AVIATOR BADGES
DESCRIPTION: An oxidized silver badge, 3/4 inch in height and 2 1/2 inches in width. It displays the shield of the coat of arms of the United States over a pair of displayed wings. A star above the shield denotes qualification as a Senior Army Aviator, and a star surrounded by a laurel wreath indicates a Master Army Aviator.
SYMBOLISM: The wings symbolize flight and the skills associated with it. The shield of the U.S. coat of arms represents loyalty and devotion to duty.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY:
- Army Aviator: Requires completion of prescribed training and proficiency tests, and official designation as an aviator.
- Senior Aviator: Available to medically and instrument-qualified aviators with seven years of rated aviation service, 84 months in operational flying duty assignments, and 1,000 hours of flight time.
- Master Aviator: Senior Aviators who are medically and instrument-qualified can apply after fifteen years of rated aviation service, 120 months in operational flying duty assignments, and 2,000 hours of flight time.
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 badges are authorized in metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badges are authorized in varying sizes for Aviator, Senior Aviator, and Master Aviator. These smaller badges are designed for wear on formal attire, such as the mess dress army uniform, allowing aviators to showcase their qualifications in formal military settings.
ARMY STAFF IDENTIFICATION BADGE
DESCRIPTION: Features the Coat of Arms of the United States in gold, with enameled white and red stripes on the shield, and a blue enameled chief. This is superimposed on a five-pointed black enameled star, with three green enameled laurel leaves in each reentrant angle of the star. The star is 3 inches in diameter for Chiefs and former Chiefs of Staff, and 2 inches for other personnel.
SYMBOLISM: Based on the General Staff insignia, replacing the Silver Star with a black star. The laurel leaves signify achievement.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded for one year of service while assigned to the Army General Staff, as per Chief of Staff Regulation 672-5. Eligible personnel include officers and E-9s in authorized 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: First proposed in 1931 and approved by the Chief of Staff, General MacArthur, on July 28, 1933. Retroactive to June 4, 1920, with subsequent authorizations for Sergeants Major (1978), Warrant Officers (1979), and civilian personnel (1982). The name changed from Army General Staff Identification Badge to Army Staff Identification Badge.
SUBDUED BADGE: Not authorized in a subdued version.
MINIATURE BADGES: A miniature badge, 1 ½ inches in diameter, with 7 stripes in the chief, was authorized in 1989. While a miniature badge exists, it is less commonly associated with the mess dress army uniform compared to qualification badges.
Aviation Badges
DESCRIPTION: An oxidized silver badge, 3/4 inch in height and 2 1/2 inches in width. It features a shield with horizontal lines, bearing the coat of arms of the United States, over a pair of displayed wings. A star above the shield indicates the Senior Aviation Badge, and a star surrounded by a laurel wreath indicates the Master Aviation Badge.
SYMBOLISM: Similar in design to the Army Aviator Badge but uses the full coat of arms of the United States. The wings signify flight skills, and the 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.
- Award announcements are made in Permanent Orders.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded in degrees based on experience and qualifications:
- BASIC AVIATION BADGE (Permanent & Temporary): Requires flying status as crewmember, aerial observer, or specific MOS completion. Temporary award is possible for personnel performing in-flight duties in units with Army aircraft.
- SENIOR AVIATION BADGE: Requires 7 years on flight status, or 10 years of experience in specific CMF/MOS fields.
- MASTER AVIATION BADGE: Requires 15 years on flight status, or 17 years experience in specific CMF/MOS fields, and attainment of grade E-6 or higher.
DATE APPROVED: Originally approved as the Aircraft Crew Member Badge in 1962 and changed to Aviation Badges in 2000, retroactive to 1947 for military personnel.
SUBDUED BADGES: Available in metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badges are authorized for Basic, Senior, and Master Aviation Badges in specific sizes. These miniature versions are suitable for wear on the mess dress army uniform, allowing aviation personnel to display their level of qualification in formal settings.
CAREER COUNSELOR BADGE
DESCRIPTION: An oxidized silver badge, 1 7/8 inches in height. It depicts an eagle with outstretched wings standing on a spear and musket, enclosed in a horizontal oval frame. The lower half of the frame is a scroll inscribed “CAREER COUNSELOR,” and the upper half features olive branches meeting at the top.
SYMBOLISM: The spear and musket from the Department of the Army seal represent the Army’s role and the counselor’s specialized requirements. The eagle is a national emblem, and olive branches symbolize service in peace and war.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY:
- For enlisted personnel in PMOS 79S (Career Counselor). Officers can wear it if they held a retention PMOS in enlisted status and met criteria.
- Retroactive to 1972 for those holding relevant PMOS.
- Temporary and permanent wear criteria based on service duration and training.
DATE APPROVED: Established in October 1971.
SUBDUED BADGE: Subdued cloth badge available with olive green base and black/olive drab embroidery.
MINIATURE BADGE: A miniature badge, 1 3/8 inches in height, is authorized. While available, the Career Counselor Badge is less commonly miniaturized for mess dress army uniform wear compared to combat or qualification badges.
Combat Action Badges
DESCRIPTION: A silver badge, 2 inches in width, featuring an oak wreath supporting a rectangle with a bayonet surmounting a grenade, all in silver. Stars are added for subsequent awards.
SYMBOLISM: Recognizes Soldiers who personally engage or are engaged by the enemy in combat. The bayonet and grenade represent combat, and the oak wreath symbolizes strength and loyalty.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Refer to Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.
DATE APPROVED: Approved on May 2, 2005, and established on June 3, 2005.
SUBDUED BADGE: Subdued badges are available in flat black metal.
MINIATURE BADGES: A dress miniature badge, 13/16 inch in width, is authorized for wear on mess uniforms, a term often interchangeable with mess dress army uniform. A miniature badge, 1 3/16 inches in width, is also authorized as an alternative to the regular size. The miniature Combat Action Badge is a common sight on the formal mess dress army uniform, recognizing combat service in a distinguished manner.
COMBAT INFANTRYMAN BADGES
DESCRIPTION: A silver and enamel badge, 1 inch in height and 3 inches in width, featuring an infantry musket on a light blue bar with a silver border, over an elliptical oak wreath. Stars denote subsequent awards.
SYMBOLISM: Blue bar represents the Infantry branch. The musket is from the 1795 Springfield Arsenal musket, the first official U.S. shoulder arm, and adopted as the Infantry insignia in 1924. Oak symbolizes steadfastness, strength, and loyalty.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded to Colonels or below with infantry or special forces MOS who performed duty in active ground combat as part of an infantry/special forces unit (brigade or smaller) since December 6, 1941. Specific criteria for each conflict are established in AR 600-8-22.
DATE APPROVED: Approved on October 7, 1943, and announced on October 27, 1943. Stars for subsequent awards were approved in 1952, making it awardable for each war.
SUBDUED BADGES: Available in metal (black finish) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: A dress miniature badge, 1 1/4 inches in length, is authorized for wear on mess uniforms or mess dress army uniforms. A miniature badge, 1 3/4 inches, is also an option instead of the regular size. The Combat Infantryman Badge, in its miniature form, is a prestigious element of the mess dress army uniform, honoring infantry combat service.
Combat Medical Badges
DESCRIPTION: An oxidized silver badge, 1 inch in height and 1 ½ inches in width, featuring a stretcher crossed by a caduceus, surmounted by a Greek cross, all over an elliptical oak wreath. Stars indicate subsequent awards.
SYMBOLISM: Medical Corps insignia modified with a Greek cross (Geneva Convention), superimposed on a stretcher, representing medical 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 to a medical unit organic to an infantry/special forces unit during active ground combat since December 6, 1941. Specific criteria are in AR 600-8-22.
DATE APPROVED: Approved on January 29, 1945. Subsequent awards were approved in 1951.
SUBDUED BADGES: Available in metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: A dress miniature badge, 19/32 inch in height, is authorized. The miniature Combat Medical Badge is often worn on the mess dress army uniform to formally recognize medical personnel’s combat service.
DISTINGUISHED PISTOL SHOT AND RIFLEMAN BADGES
DESCRIPTION:
- PISTOL SHOT: Gold badge, 2 43/64 inches in height, with a bar and pendant. The bar features a shield of stars and stripes with “U.S. ARMY.” The pendant has an enameled target between “DISTINGUISHED” and “PISTOL SHOT.”
- RIFLEMAN: Gold badge, 2 3/16 inches in height, with a bar and pendant similar to the Pistol Shot Badge, but with “RIFLEMAN” inscription.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded for preeminent achievement in target practice with military rifles or pistols, earning 30 credit points in authorized competitions (AR 350-6).
DATE APPROVED: Distinguished Rifleman Badge approved in 1887, and Distinguished Pistol Shot Badge in 1903.
SUBDUED BADGES: Not authorized.
MINIATURE BADGES: Not authorized. However, smaller versions might be considered for wear on a mess dress army uniform by some individuals, though not officially sanctioned as “miniature badges”.
DIVER BADGES
DESCRIPTION: Various silver badges denoting different diver qualifications:
- Scuba: Scuba diver’s hood, 1 inch high.
- Salvage: Diving helmet with “S,” 1 inch high.
- Second Class: Diving helmet, 1 inch high.
- First Class: Diving helmet between two dolphins, 1 15/16 inch high.
- Master: Diving helmet in front of a trident between dolphins, 1 1/4 inches high.
SYMBOLISM: Each badge represents increasing levels of diving skill and specialization, from basic scuba to master-level expertise. The helmet is a common element, with dolphins and trident added for higher qualifications to symbolize marine skills and valor.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Requirements for each level are in AR 611-75, with progressive requirements for each qualification.
DATE APPROVED: Second Class, Salvage, First Class, and Master Diver Badges approved in 1944; Scuba Badge in 1969.
SUBDUED BADGES: Available in metal (black for all) and cloth (olive green base with black/olive drab embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badges are authorized for all diver badges in specific sizes. These miniature badges are appropriate for wear on the mess dress army uniform, allowing divers to showcase their specialized qualifications in formal military settings.
DRILL SERGEANT IDENTIFICATION BADGE
DESCRIPTION:
- METAL: Gold plated metal and enamel insignia, 2 inches wide, featuring a flaming torch above armor and a rattlesnake with an encircling scroll “THIS WE’LL DEFEND” and 13 stars.
- EMBROIDERED: Subdued embroidered insignia, larger than metal version.
SYMBOLISM: Elements from the U.S. Army Flag and Department of the Army Seal, torch of liberty, and 13 stars.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded by the Drill Sergeant School Commandant upon course completion and drill sergeant assignment. Can be revoked if removed from drill sergeant position for cause.
WEAR: Metal badge worn on the right side of dress uniforms. Subdued embroidered badge for utility uniforms.
BACKGROUND: Metal badge approved in 1958 for trainers, authorized for drill sergeants in 1964. Embroidered version evolved over time from full color to subdued.
MINIATURE BADGES: While not explicitly listed as “miniature,” a smaller metal version might be suitable for a mess dress army uniform, though the standard metal badge is typically worn on service uniforms.
DRIVER AND MECHANIC BADGE
DESCRIPTION: White metal (silver, nickel, rhodium), 1 inch in height and width, cross patee with a disk wheel and tire in the center.
QUALIFICATION BARS: Bars for OPERATOR-S, MECHANIC, DRIVER-A, DRIVER-M, DRIVER-T, DRIVER-W.
BACKGROUND: Authorized in 1942, awarded for high skill in motor vehicle operation and maintenance.
MINIATURE BADGES: Not explicitly mentioned. Due to its functional nature, the Driver and Mechanic Badge and its qualification bars are less commonly miniaturized for mess dress army uniform wear.
EXPERT FIELD MEDICAL BADGE
DESCRIPTION: Oxidized silver badge, 15/16 inch in height and 1 7/16 inches in width, featuring a stretcher crossed by a caduceus, surmounted by a Greek cross.
SYMBOLISM: Medical Corps insignia modified with a Greek cross, superimposed on a stretcher, representing medical field expertise.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Recognizes Army medical personnel for high technical skill in field medical functions, awarded based on proven skill and passing tests.
DATE APPROVED: Approved on June 18, 1965.
SUBDUED BADGES: Available in metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: A dress miniature badge, 9/16-inch in height, is authorized. The miniature Expert Field Medical Badge is a distinguished addition to the mess dress army uniform, recognizing exceptional medical field skills.
EXPERT INFANTRYMAN BADGE
DESCRIPTION: Silver and enamel badge, 7/16 inch in height and 3 inches in width, featuring an Infantry musket on a light blue bar with a silver border.
SYMBOLISM: Blue bar for Infantry, musket from the 1795 Springfield Arsenal musket, representing Infantry expertise.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Requires meeting Department of the Army testing requirements and MOS within Career Management Field 11 (Infantry) or 18 (Special Forces), except 18D.
DATE APPROVED: Approved on October 7, 1943, announced October 27, 1943.
SUBDUED BADGE: Available in metal (black finish) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGE: Dress miniature badge, 1 1/4 inches in length and 3/16 inch in height, is authorized for mess uniforms or mess dress army uniforms. A slightly larger miniature is also authorized as an alternative to the regular size. The miniature Expert Infantryman Badge is a mark of distinction on the formal mess dress army uniform.
EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL BADGES
DESCRIPTION: Silver badges, 1 3/4 inches in height, featuring a shield with a drop bomb and lightning flashes within a laurel wreath. Basic, Senior (with a star on the bomb), and Master (with star and wreath above shield) versions exist.
SYMBOLISM: Shield and bomb from the Bomb Disposal School insignia, representing safe disposal of live ordnance.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Criteria in AR 600-8-22, requiring EOD position assignment and commander recommendation, plus:
- EOD Badge: MOS 55D (enlisted) or 91E (officer), training, and 18 months of satisfactory performance.
- Senior EOD Badge: Basic EOD Badge and 36 cumulative months in EOD position.
- Master EOD Badge: Senior EOD Badge and 60 months in EOD position.
DATE APPROVED: EOD Specialist and Supervisor Badges approved in 1957, Master EOD Badge in 1969. Supervisor’s badge became Senior EOD Badge, and Specialist’s badge became EOD Badge.
SUBDUED BADGE: Available in metal (black finish) and cloth (olive green base with black/olive drab embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: A dress miniature badge, 7/8 inch wide, is authorized. Miniature EOD badges are worn on the mess dress army uniform to formally recognize the hazardous and specialized skills of EOD personnel.
FLIGHT SURGEON BADGES
DESCRIPTION: Oxidized silver badge, 23/32 inch in height and 2 1/2 inches in width, featuring a shield with the Staff of Aesculapius over wings. Senior and Master versions include stars and wreaths.
SYMBOLISM: Wings for flight, Staff of Aesculapius for healing and medical skills.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded to medically qualified Army Medical Corps Officers completing AR 600-105 training.
DATE APPROVED: Flight Surgeon Badge approved in 1956, Senior and Master Flight Surgeon Badges in 1963. Designations changed in 1973.
SUBDUED BADGES: Available in metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badges are authorized in specific sizes for Flight Surgeon, Senior Flight Surgeon, and Master Flight Surgeon. These miniature badges are designed for wear on formal uniforms, including the mess dress army uniform, allowing flight surgeons to display their qualifications in formal settings.
Glider Badge
DESCRIPTION: Oxidized silver badge, 11/16 inch in height and 1 1/2 inches in width, featuring a glider over stylized wings.
SYMBOLISM: Wings for flight, glider symbolizing skills in glider-based aerial flight.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: No longer awarded. Historically, for personnel in glider/airborne units or Airborne Department of Infantry School, completing training or combat glider landing.
DATE APPROVED: Approved in 1944.
SUBDUED BADGES: Subdued badge in black metal finish is authorized.
MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badge, 13/32 inch in height and 7/8 inch in width, is authorized. While the Glider Badge is obsolete, miniature versions might be historically relevant for display on vintage or historical mess dress army uniforms.
GUARD, TOMB OF THE UNKNOWN SOLDIER IDENTIFICATION BADGE
DESCRIPTION: Silver color metal badge, 2 inches wide, featuring an inverted laurel wreath surmounted by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with figures of Peace, Victory, and Valor, and “HONOR GUARD” inscription.
ELIGIBILITY: Awarded by the Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion (Reinforced), 3d U.S. Infantry (The Old Guard), to members of the Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, during their assignment. Permanent wear authorized after 9 months of honorable service and commander recommendation.
DATE APPROVED: Established in 1957.
SUBDUED BADGE: Subdued cloth badge available with olive green base and black/olive green embroidery.
MINIATURE BADGES: Not explicitly mentioned. Given its unique nature and prestige, a miniature version could be considered appropriate for a mess dress army uniform for those permanently awarded the badge, although standard size is more common.
JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF IDENTIFICATION BADGE
DESCRIPTION.
- Regular Size: Oval silver laurel wreath, 2 1/4 inches high, with the U.S. shield on gold swords, scroll with “JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF.”
- Miniature Size: 1 1/2 inches high, same design, 9 stripes on shield.
- Lapel Button: 9/16 inch high, same design, 5 stripes on shield.
SYMBOLISM. Laurel for achievement, courage, victory. Swords for Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps armed might and readiness.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY. Criteria in JCS Memorandum of Policy (MOP) 142.
DATE APPROVED. Approved in 1963.
MINIATURE BADGES: A miniature size badge is specifically authorized. The miniature Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge is perfectly suited for wear on the mess dress army uniform, allowing personnel serving with the JCS to display their affiliation in formal settings.
NUCLEAR REACTOR OPERATOR BADGES
(Note: Army no longer conducts nuclear reactor operations or training; badge no longer awarded but may be worn by past recipients.)
DESCRIPTION:
- Basic: Silver square with Uranus symbol disc.
- Second Class Operator: Basic badge on laurel wreath.
- First Class Operator: Basic badge encircled by laurel wreath.
- Shift Supervisor: First Class Operator design in gold.
SYMBOLISM: Square for nuclear reactor, bars for control rods, Uranus symbol for nuclear energy, laurel wreaths for achievement, gold for highest qualification.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: No longer awarded. Historically, required Nuclear Power Plant Operators Course and shifts operating nuclear reactors.
DATE APPROVED: Approved in 1965.
SUBDUED BADGES: Available in metal (black/brown enamel) and cloth (olive green base with olive drab/black/brown embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badges authorized for all designs. For historical purposes, miniature Nuclear Reactor Operator Badges could be part of a display on a vintage mess dress army uniform representing past Army capabilities.
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE IDENTIFICATION BADGE
DESCRIPTION:
- Regular Size: 2-inch diameter, gold eagle with arrows, shield, annulet with stars, laurel/olive wreath, on silver sunburst.
- Miniature Badge: 1 1/2 inch diameter, same design, 9 stripes on shield.
- Lapel Button: 37/64 inch diameter, same design, 5 stripes on shield.
SYMBOLISM: Elements from the Department of Defense seal.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Criteria in DOD Directive 1348.13, service of at least one year subsequent to January 13, 1961.
DATE APPROVED: Originally approved in 1949 as National Military Establishment Identification Badge, redesignated Department of Defense Identification Badge in 1950, and Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge in 1962.
MINIATURE BADGES: A miniature badge is specifically authorized. The miniature Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge is appropriate for formal wear, including the mess dress army uniform, for personnel serving within the OSD.
PARACHUTE RIGGER BADGE
DESCRIPTION: Silver winged hemispherical canopy with cords, 1 3/4 inches wide, with “RIGGER” band.
SYMBOLISM: Winged parachute represents rigging supplies for airdrop and parachute packing/repair.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Completing U.S. Army Quartermaster School course and MOS 43E (enlisted) or 401A (warrant). Officers upon course completion (AR 600-8-22).
DATE APPROVED: Approved in 1986, retroactive to May 1951 course completion.
SUBDUED BADGE: Available in metal (black finish) and cloth (olive green base with black/olive drab embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGE: Dress miniature badge, 7/8 inch wide, is authorized. The miniature Parachute Rigger Badge is suitable for wear on formal attire, such as the mess dress army uniform, recognizing the specialized skills of parachute riggers.
PARACHUTISTS BADGES
DESCRIPTION: Oxidized silver badge, 1 13/64 inches in height and 1 1/2 inches in width, featuring an open parachute over stylized wings. Senior and Master versions include stars and wreaths. Small stars indicate combat jumps.
SYMBOLISM: Wings for flight, parachute for parachute qualifications.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Master, Senior, and Parachutist badges awarded based on jump numbers, jump types, jumpmaster qualifications, and service in jump status. Basic Parachutist Badge for course completion or combat jump.
DATE APPROVED: Parachutist Badge approved in 1941, Senior and Master in 1949.
SUBDUED BADGES: Available in metal (black) and cloth (olive green base with black embroidery).
MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badges are authorized in specific sizes for Master, Senior, and Parachutist. These miniature parachutist badges are commonly worn on the mess dress army uniform, showcasing airborne qualifications in formal military settings.
PATHFINDER BADGE
DESCRIPTION: Gold color metal and enamel badge, 1 3/16 inches in height and 1 1/2 inches in width, featuring a gold wing over a gold torch with red and gray flames.
SYMBOLISM: Wing for flight/airborne capabilities, torch for leadership and guidance, representing pathfinder skills.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded by the Commandant, U.S. Army Infantry School, for successful Pathfinder Course completion.
DATE APPROVED: Originally approved in felt in 1964, replaced by metal and enamel in 1968.
SUBDUED BADGES: Subdued badge in black metal finish is authorized.
MINIATURE BADGES: Dress miniature badge, 11/16 inch in height and 7/8 inch in width, is authorized. The miniature Pathfinder Badge is a distinguished badge often seen on the mess dress army uniform, recognizing specialized pathfinder qualifications.
PHYSICAL FITNESS BADGE
DESCRIPTION: Cloth badge, 2 5/8 inches diameter, featuring a yellow stylized human figure, U.S. coat of arms, and “PHYSICAL FITNESS EXCELLENCE” inscription on a blue disc.
SYMBOLISM: U.S. coat of arms, stylized figure emphasizing physical fitness in the Army.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded for APFT score of 290 or higher and meeting weight control requirements (AR 600-9). Retained as long as minimum APFT score and weight standards are met.
DATE APPROVED: Established in 1986, effective October 1, 1986.
WEAR POLICY: Cloth badge worn only on physical fitness uniform, centered on the left side of the T-shirt or sweatshirt.
MINIATURE BADGES: Not applicable as it’s a cloth badge for PT uniforms only and not intended for mess dress army uniform or formal wear.
Ranger Tab
DESCRIPTION: Cloth tab, 2 3/8 inches wide, black embroidered background with yellow border and letters for Army green uniform. Subdued version with olive drab background and black letters for work uniforms. Metal replica authorized for dress mess uniforms.
SYMBOLISM: Colors from a previous ranger shoulder sleeve insignia.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded by the Commandant, U.S. Army Infantry School, for Ranger Course completion. Retroactive awards for WWII/Korean War Ranger service or Ranger Course completion.
DATE APPROVED: Cloth tab approved in 1950, wear authorized in 1953, metal replica for mess dress uniforms approved in 1984.
SUBDUED TAB: Olive drab background with black letters, embroidered only.
MINIATURE BADGES: Metal badge, 1 5/32 inches wide, with black enameled background and gold letters/border for Army blue/white uniform and green shirt. Dress miniature for mess/dress uniforms, 13/16 inch wide. The miniature metal Ranger Tab is specifically designed for wear on formal uniforms like the mess dress army uniform, signifying Ranger qualification in a formal and distinguished manner.
SPECIAL FORCES TAB
DESCRIPTION: Cloth tab, 3 1/4 inches wide, teal blue embroidered background and border with yellow letters for Army green uniform. Subdued version in olive drab. Metal Special Forces Badge authorized for mess/dress uniforms and green shirt.
SYMBOLISM: Colors same as Special Forces Groups shoulder sleeve insignia.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded by the Commander, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center, for Special Forces Qualification Course or Officer Course completion. Also for those meeting criteria in AR 600-8-22 (active, reserve, retired, honorably discharged).
DATE APPROVED: Cloth tab approved in 1983, metal replica for mess dress uniforms approved in 1984.
SUBDUED TAB: Olive drab background and border with black letters, embroidered only.
MINIATURE BADGES: Metal badge, 1 9/16 inches wide, teal blue enameled background and gold letters/border for Army blue/white uniform and green shirt. Dress miniature for mess/dress uniforms, 1 inch wide. Similar to the Ranger Tab, the miniature metal Special Forces Tab is explicitly designed for formal uniforms like the mess dress army uniform, denoting Special Forces qualification in a formal and prestigious way.
U.S. ARMY RECRUITER BADGE
DESCRIPTION: Silver or gold metal device, 2 1/8 inches high, circular band with “U.S. ARMY RECRUITER” inscription, eagle, and flaming torch. Stars can be added for achievement.
SYMBOLISM: Circular band for continuous Army need, eagle for federal authority, torch for advancement opportunities.
BACKGROUND: Originally approved in 1966, redesigned in 1974, stars added/modified later.
AWARD ELIGIBILITY: Awarded to personnel in U.S. Army Recruiting Command (USAREC). Basic, Gold, and achievement stars awarded based on USAREC criteria (AR 600-8-22 supplementation).
SUBDUED BADGES: Subdued cloth badges available for silver and gold versions in olive green/black and black/olive drab/spruce green.
MINIATURE BADGES: Not explicitly mentioned. While standard size Recruiter Badges are worn on service uniforms, miniature versions are less common on the mess dress army uniform.
U.S. ARMY RESERVE RECRUITER (OBSOLETE)
(Note: Obsolete badge, no longer exists as a separate badge.)
DESCRIPTION: Metal device, 2 1/4 inches high, with “UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE” and “RESERVE” inscriptions, and U.S. Army Reserve emblem.
BACKGROUND: No longer a separate badge. Regular Army and Reserve Component recruiters now wear the U.S. Army Recruiter Identification Badge.
MINIATURE BADGES: Not applicable as it’s obsolete. Historically, miniature versions would not be worn on a modern mess dress army uniform.
WEAPONS QUALIFICATION
DESCRIPTION: White metal (silver, nickel, rhodium) badges:
- EXPERT: Cross patee with target and wreath, 1.17 inches high.
- SHARPSHOOTER: Cross patee with target, 1 inch high.
- MARKSMAN: Cross patee, 1 inch high.
QUALIFICATION BARS: Numerous bars for different weapons (Rifle, Machinegun, Pistol, etc.).
MINIATURE BADGES: While not explicitly termed “miniature badges,” smaller versions of the basic qualification badges and weapon bars are inherently worn on the mess dress army uniform. The cross patee badges themselves are relatively small and streamlined for formal uniform wear, and the weapon qualification bars are designed to be compactly arranged on the badge, making the entire assembly suitable for the formal context of the mess dress army uniform. These badges and bars recognize varying levels of weapons proficiency.
Conclusion:
U.S. Army badges are more than mere decorations; they are potent symbols of honor, achievement, and dedication. From the skies to the battlefield, and even in formal settings like those requiring the mess dress army uniform, these badges narrate the story of a soldier’s journey, skills, and contributions. Whether full-sized or miniature versions worn on formal attire, each badge carries a legacy of service and excellence, deeply embedded in the traditions of the U.S. Army. The meticulous detail and symbolism within each design reflect the high standards and diverse accomplishments of Army personnel, making them a fascinating and integral aspect of military culture and uniform heritage.
