The History and Practice of Wearing Multiple Combat Badges

In the hallowed halls of military tradition, the question of whether more than one combat action badge can be worn simultaneously arises periodically. Traditionally, such a practice has been carefully regulated, with a clear distinction drawn between past and present regulations. This article delves into the history of this practice, serving as a reference for understanding both the past and current standard procedures.

Historical Context: The 1960s and Early 1970s

The 1960s to early 1970s were a period marked by intense military engagements, particularly in Vietnam and the Korean War. During this time, it was quite common to witness soldiers wearing multiple combat badges, including the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) and the Combat Medical Badge (CMB). These individuals could be easily identified by the colorful display of their insignia on their uniforms, including jump wings, pathfinder badges, and unit patches. The figure of a veteran who served in the Korean War, earned the CMB, and later in Vietnam as a Special Forces member often displayed this combination of badges.

Regulations and Restrictions

However, as the years progressed, regulations regarding the wearing of combat badges became more stringent. The U.S. Department of the Army's Pam 670–1, "Guide to Wear and Appearance," which was last updated on 26 January 2021, outlines the regulations in detail. According to Article 22–16, personnel may only wear one combat or special skill badge from either Group 1 or Group 2 above the ribbons above the top of the pocket or in a similar location for uniforms without pockets. Soldiers are permitted to wear up to three badges from Groups 3, 4, and 5 in the same location. Additionally, one badge from either Group 1 or Group 2 can be worn in conjunction with badges from Groups 3, 4, and 5, provided the total number of badges does not exceed three. The driver and mechanic badge, however, is not authorized for this location.

The Case of the CIB and CMB

When it comes to the specific badges in question, combat regulations clarify that individuals cannot wear both the CIB and CMB at the same time if they earned both in the same war zone or authorized period, such as the Dominican Republic and Vietnam. Nonetheless, if an individual earned either badge in any conflict and the other in a different operational theater, they are allowed to wear both with the appropriate "stars" to denote multiple awards.

Historical Observations and Future Insights

During the era of Special Forces Training Group (now SFQC), it was not uncommon to see instructors and cadre who held both the CIB and CMB, as well as veterans from Korea primarily and Vietnam with the CIB with a star for multiple awards. One Special Forces Group Command Sergeant Major even wore the CIB with two stars from time to time, a testament to the past's more lenient practices.

For those interested in the subject of military insignia and badge regulations, this article serves as a valuable resource. It not only provides historical context but also offers a concise overview of current regulations as outlined by the U.S. Department of the Army.

Keywords: combat action badge, military insignia, wear and appearance regulations