Drill Sergeant Identification Badge
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The Drill Sergeant Identification Badge is a military badge of the United States Army which was first issued on January 15, 1958. It is also nicknamed the "pumpkin" patch due to is appearance when worn in a subduded manner. The badge is presented to any service member who has completed the Drill Sergeant Course at the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant School, and has been assigned as an active duty drill sergeant at a U.S. Army training command.
The drill sergeant identification badge is worn by all qualified drill sergeants. Each element of the badge has a specific meaning. It consists of 13 stars representing the original colonies. The torch, burning brightly, in the center symbolizes liberty. The snake is derived from the original ”Don’t Tread On Me” serpent, a symbol of American independence during the 18th century. Together with the torch and breastplate, it indicated readiness to defend. The breastplate is a symbol of strength. The green background is a vestment worn under the breastplate. Its called a Jupon, which represents the new Army. The snake grasps, with his tail and teeth, a scroll inscribed “This We’ll Defend.” The inscription summarizes the meaning of all the symbols on the badge, depicting the determination, devotion, and constant readiness of the American Soldier.
The Drill Sergeant Identification Badge (nonsubdued) is worn on the lower right uniform pocket of the U.S. Army Class A uniform. On the Army Combat Uniform (ACU), the black subdued pin on version is worn centered on the ACU coat pocket. The Drill Sergeant badge is considered a temporary decoration which is surrendered upon completion of duty as a drill sergeant. The badge may be authorized for permanent wear, upon application of a service member to the Commandant of the Drill Sergeant School, and in such cases the Drill Sergeant Identification Badge may be worn for the duration of a military member’s career. Any drill sergeant who is relieved of duties for cause must surrender the badge and is not eligible for any further display of the decoration. (Source: http://www.wood.army.mil/mncoa/dss/history.htm)
The United States Air Force equivalent of the Drill Sergeant Identification Badge is known as the Air Education and Training Command Instructor Badge.
The Air Force also issues a Drill Instructor Ribbon, along with the U.S. Navy and United States Marines. United States Coast Guard drill instructors, called Company Commanders, wear a gold badge for the remainder of their career.
