Classes of Army Badges

U.S. Army Flag

The United States Army awards badges to soldiers who have acquired special skills, had specific postings during their career, or served in a special assignment such as drill sergeant or recruiter. These badges are worn on the soldier's uniform as a sort of visual resume, highlighting specific aspects of his career or abilities.

Special Skill Badges

According to Army Regulation 600-8-22, "Military Awards" Chapter 8, special skill badges include awards such as the Combat Infantryman's Badge or Basic Parachutist Badge (Airborne Wings). These are divided into four separate skill groups:
Skill Group 1 includes the Combat Infantryman's Badge, the Expert Infantryman's Badge and the Combat Action Badge.
Skill Group 2 includes the Combat Medic's Badge and the Expert Field Medical Badge.
Skill Group 3 includes badges related to aviation and explosive ordnance disposal.
Skill Group 4 includes badges such as the Parachutist, Freefall Parachutist, Air Assault and Pathfinder Badges. It also includes all Army Tabs, like the Ranger and Special Forces Tab, that are worn on the shoulder of combat and class A uniform and on the breast pockets of the Army Service Uniform and all other formal uniforms.
Skill Group 5 includes the Diver, Driver and Mechanic and Parachute Rigger badges.
These badges are worn on on the uniform in their order of precedence, with the lower numbered skill groups on top and the higher numbered skill groups near the bottom according to the Army Regulation 670-1, "Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms."

Marksmanship Badges

These badges are awarded for a soldier's skill with a weapon; nearly every soldier will wear either an expert, sharpshooter or marksman badge depending on their level of proficiency. Competitive shooters, such as those assigned to the Army Marksmanship Unit, may be eligible for the Distinguished International Shooter, Distinguished Shot or Excellence in competition badges.

Identification Badges

These badges, generally worn on the top front pocket of a soldier's uniform, show that a soldier has served in a special capacity. For instance a guard for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, is issued a Tomb Guard Identification Badge, while a member of the Army Staff at the Pentagon is issued an Army Staff Badge, as are recruiters and drill sergeants. On the Army Service Uniform, soldiers who have deployed to combat may wear a Combat Service Identification Badge. Full descriptions of all classes of Army Badges may be found at the Army Institute of Heraldry's website.

References

• Army Regulation 600-8-22 "Military Awards"
• Army Regulation 670-1
• Army Institute of Heraldry-Skill Identification Badges