Should an Officer wear a Driver's Badge that was earned while he was Enlisted?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 22:55:49 -0400

I've seen the posts about Officers not wearing qualification badges relating specifically to weapons qual, how they should be experts of everything etc. etc., but I've never heard anyone specifically address the driver's badge. It isn't anything spectacular or anything to write home about, but it is a badge nonetheless and represents a specific knowledge and skill. Thoughts?

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Mar 26 at 2018 11:41 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 23:41:13 -0400

I don't have a clue about a Driver's Badge, but no one better touch my weapons qualifications. I'm proud of those and I wore them proudly

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2018 11:51 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 23:51:34 -0400

(edited to remove language - leaving the original message from me as a brand new 2LT in 2018) Original: "I'm wearing all my enlisted [stuff] until someone shows me a reg saying I can't :) "

To anyone reading this now (me as a CPT), I understand that foul language is frowned upon in the officer ranks and sometimes our words can be taken other than how they were intended...growth is real and I encourage everyone to continue! :)

Response by CW3 Jeff Held made Mar 26 at 2018 11:54 PM

CW3 Jeff Held — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 23:54:54 -0400

Sure. They earned it.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Mar 26 at 2018 11:56 PM

SN Greg Wright — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 23:56:01 -0400

I think you need to do some research into what it takes to get that badge before you say -- and I say this with respect -- inane shit like 'it's nothing to write home about'. Non-SF divers aren't SFs, but they go through THE SAME exact dive training. Which means some tens of hours of people with rebreathers trying to DROWN YOU OUT. Watch some youtube vids on 'drown-proofing' and then tell me if you still think it's nothing to write home about.

Response by SPC David Willis made Mar 27 at 2018 12:03 AM

SPC David Willis — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:03:18 -0400

Drivers badge is probably the most earned unawarded badge or medal out there.

Response by SGT Lee Jamison made Mar 27 at 2018 12:50 AM

SGT Lee Jamison — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:50:57 -0400

If you earned it, wear it. it doesn’t matter when you earned it, it’s yours, be proud of it, no matter how simple it may be in another’s eyes.

Response by LT Brad McInnis made Mar 27 at 2018 1:10 AM

LT Brad McInnis — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 01:10:40 -0400

I had my Enlisted Surface Warfare Pin that I wore as a midshipman at the Academy, and all the way until I replaced it with the Surface Warfare Officer pin. If you earned it, you earned it. Wear it! Plus, it really gets on some of the straight in officers that have no pins! So, bonus!

Response by GySgt Kevin Vest made Mar 27 at 2018 9:15 AM

GySgt Kevin Vest — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 09:15:07 -0400

I agree with most everyone here, if you earned it, wear it!

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 27 at 2018 9:25 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 09:25:42 -0400

I never wore mine, thought the Expert shot with 3 bars was more important to us grunts.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Mar 27 at 2018 9:43 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 09:43:14 -0400

It is an earned award and should Displayed however upper chain of Command Allows Officers to not ware some awards. Last I Knew AR 670-1 required all Soldiers to wear all Earned awards.

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Mar 27 at 2018 9:49 AM

SGM Steve Wettstein — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 09:49:01 -0400

I have never seen an O wear anything but wings, CIBs, AASLT type of badges. You won't see them wear anything else.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Mar 27 at 2018 9:51 AM

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 09:51:09 -0400

I don't see why officers cannot wear everything that they have earned just the same as the enlisted guys and gals. The thing is, where the driver/mechanic badge is concerned, you usually won't see officers ever earn them. Going through the driver's training may be mandatory due to unit SOP, but in order to earn the badge, you must log so many miles/hours behind the wheel of whatever vehicle and officers usually don't drive themselves around in any military vehicles. In fact, during my career, I have only ever seen a handful of officers ever get behind the wheel while an enlisted man was also present and it was not a necessity, they just wanted to drive around in a big truck, Bradley, or, most often, tank.

Response by SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. made Mar 27 at 2018 11:32 AM

SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 11:32:17 -0400

Yes; if they earned it wear it. I was in Marine Corps and when I joined Army I wore my earned Marine Corps Badges. ie..Combat Air Crew and Jump Wings.

Response by PO2 Peter Klein made Mar 27 at 2018 4:00 PM

PO2 Peter Klein — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 16:00:24 -0400

I was never one to study regs and I have been out a loooong time, but the person is still the same and the qualification, whatever it was, was earned by that person.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2018 7:34 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 19:34:30 -0400

This is a real question? Doesn't matter if you are enlisted or commissioned. It is a permanent award. Which is why it also is placed before the marksmanship badge on ASUs.
In that case, all Drill Sergeants who change over shouldn't have their badge. You gonna tell a round hat to lose the badge? I don't think so. You earned that badge no matter how insignificant it is or what rank you are/were when you got it.
*** not addressing you personally just expressing my opinion in a verbally abrasive manner***

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2018 8:26 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 20:26:15 -0400

I earned one back when I was a mechanic. Haven’t even thought of it since. I don’t think it would be necessary for an officer to be an expert in everything. When was the last time you saw an officer, above LT, PMCS a vehicle not their POV?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2018 1:28 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 01:28:11 -0400

No officers don't drive.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2018 12:12 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 12:12:30 -0400

Keep in mind that they are also earned through being an assigned driver for 12 months or designated Driving Instructor for 12 months. Doesn't have to be driving 8000 miles.

Response by 1LT Jon Wade made Apr 3 at 2018 11:45 AM

1LT Jon Wade — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 11:45:44 -0400

With some exceptions I always have as well as most of my fellow officers, I had an enlisted air crewmen badge and when I was commissioned I could no longer wear the crewmen badge as I was awarded aviation as my branch an from what I could find an officer could not wear both at one time. I came to see it as, do you wear eib cib or the cab if awarded two or even all three? No eib is a skill badge but is replace if you are awarded cib

Response by 1SG Kenneth Talkington Sr made Apr 6 at 2018 5:34 PM

1SG Kenneth Talkington Sr — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 17:34:37 -0400

He or she earned it so why shouldn'e it abe worn.

Response by SGT Jim Ramge, MBA made Apr 6 at 2018 9:07 PM

SGT Jim Ramge, MBA — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 21:07:15 -0400

I guess at some point, you just get tired of putting shit you’ve earned on the uniform... Case in point, look back at some of GEN Eisenhower’s old photos! Just saying, some of us were pretty humble and never really cared. Sure, we had some that we were more proud of earning over others, but at some point, it becomes excessive, does it not, a ribbon here, a badge there, etc.? Everyone has their favorite awards, and everyone earned, no doubt! But if someone doesn’t want to have to put all that crap on, time and time again, sometimes it is more of a hassle then anything else. Especially if you are wearing it daily due to your assignment. Just my thoughts...

Response by COL Dana Hampton made Apr 8 at 2018 1:42 PM

COL Dana Hampton — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 13:42:05 -0400

There isn't anything I'm aware of in AR670-1 that prevents an officer from wearing driver's or weapons qualification skill badges they've earned privous to commissioning.

Most officer's just don't wear them as a matter of choice. I have a friend who earned the drill sergeants' badge and was on the trail, but after completing OCS and putting on the gold bar, he stopped wearing it.

It's really a preference thing. Most officers just don't wear them.

Response by SPC Tony Means made Apr 8 at 2018 2:44 PM

SPC Tony Means — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 14:44:45 -0400

Dealers choice, wear what you're most proud of or that has the best story to go along with it!?!

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Apr 8 at 2018 5:06 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 17:06:13 -0400

Yes. And they should be wearing marksmanship badges... That's an unofficial tradition that isn't supported by regulations.

Response by Cpl Daniel Clark made Apr 8 at 2018 6:50 PM

Cpl Daniel Clark — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 18:50:18 -0400

Don't have any idea what a "Drivers Badge" is. May need someone to educate me about the Driver Badge

Response by SFC James Pemberton made Apr 9 at 2018 9:34 AM

SFC James Pemberton — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 09:34:22 -0400

Earned it wear it

Response by LCpl Earl Rigby made Apr 9 at 2018 5:36 PM

LCpl Earl Rigby — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 17:36:29 -0400

You earn it,you wear it.

Response by SSG Randall Ford made Apr 12 at 2018 10:29 PM

SSG Randall Ford — Thu, 12 Apr 2018 22:29:15 -0400

I can't see why they shouldn't. It's not like a stolen Valor type of thing. Just like as an Army MP Instructor attacked to the MWD school in which the Air Force is the proponent agency. The award of the Air Force Outstanding Unit award was issued and reflected it in our 201 files

Response by CSM Clifford Fargason made Apr 14 at 2018 10:51 PM

CSM Clifford Fargason — Sat, 14 Apr 2018 22:51:13 -0400

Lots of good answers already. But for those who are saying that if you earned it as enlisted you should wear it as an officer, that does not apply if you earned and received authorization to wear the German marksmanship award. The wear criteria for that is enlisted only.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2018 11:18 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 11:18:20 -0400

CPT Private RallyPoint Member overall I have never seen an officer wear any badges for shooting or driving. No real explanation of why, but probably the same reason we do not have Good Conduct Medals, we are expected to be able to have good conduct. So we should be able to shoot and drive, but that is not our main job and in reality if we are shooting or driving that means something went wrong somewhere along the line.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Apr 18 at 2018 10:00 AM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 10:00:35 -0400

If they earned wear it.

Response by SSG Jeremy Sharp made Apr 18 at 2018 11:39 AM

SSG Jeremy Sharp — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 11:39:58 -0400

If an award is earned it should be worn regardless of the rank when earned.

Response by LCDR Glenn Adwell made Apr 18 at 2018 10:21 PM

LCDR Glenn Adwell — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 22:21:21 -0400

I was the first midshipman to qualify submarines when it was first authorized in 1980. I was also prior enlisted. You can be damned sure I wore my silver dolphins proudly throughout my officer career. It was always a good conversation starter. Even had an Army general's wife approach me at my daughter's military ball to ask about them.

Response by John Helmer made Apr 19 at 2018 3:57 PM

John Helmer — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 15:57:40 -0400

If you earn it you should wear it

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2018 2:16 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 22 Apr 2018 14:16:16 -0400

Divers badge is hard as hell to earn. Army dive school is not easy and ranks as one of the physically hardest schools in the military. You earn that it is like Airborne wings, you wear it.

Response by SSgt Ed Stutz made Apr 25 at 2018 5:23 PM

SSgt Ed Stutz — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 17:23:04 -0400

Yes, of course. Officer or enlisted, any award authorized should be proudly displayed on the uniform

Response by GySgt Edwin Rivera made Apr 27 at 2018 7:12 AM

GySgt Edwin Rivera — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 07:12:55 -0400

you earn it, where it.

Response by CPO Jim Buc made Apr 27 at 2018 2:15 PM

CPO Jim Buc — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 14:15:46 -0400

I don't know what a driver's is but if you earn it. It's yours to wear.

Response by Cpl Morgan Guynes made Apr 30 at 2018 4:27 PM

Cpl Morgan Guynes — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 16:27:41 -0400

Pardon my vernacular, what the fuck is a "Drivers Badge"? (Obviously I'm a Marine...)

Response by CAPT Patrick Mulcahy made Apr 30 at 2018 11:31 PM

CAPT Patrick Mulcahy — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 23:31:25 -0400

In the Navy, all your enlisted qual badges (insignia) are worn when you become an officer.

Response by SSgt Gerald Davis Jr made May 4 at 2018 6:23 PM

SSgt Gerald Davis Jr — Fri, 04 May 2018 18:23:06 -0400

Don't Mustang Officers and Prior Enlisted Warrants wear their Good Conduct Medals?

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2018 8:57 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 May 2018 20:57:48 -0400

If you’ve earned it, you can definitely wear it. I wore mine when enlisted, but chose not to when I became a Warrant. Like the reg says, authorized awards are worn at the option of the wearer.

Response by 1LT Marcus Chalfant made May 5 at 2018 10:02 PM

1LT Marcus Chalfant — Sat, 05 May 2018 22:02:25 -0400

It used to be a custom that Officers didn't wear all the badges earned as enlisted.
And aside from CIB, EIB, ABN, AASLT, Pathfinder, Ranger, SF, and Flight Wings we had enough "Fruit Salad". Drivers Badges and the potential for rows of Expert Weapons badges seemed overkill for an officer whose job it was to lead soldiers, not drive trucks. (Not taking away anything from those whose job bit IS to drive trucks. Those folks are vital to the mission.)

Response by PO2 John Chalus made May 11 at 2018 4:25 PM

PO2 John Chalus — Fri, 11 May 2018 16:25:46 -0400

Why would he want to wear such a badge?

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made May 12 at 2018 12:58 AM

SSG Mark Franzen — Sat, 12 May 2018 00:58:43 -0400

I would say no that when he was Enlisted times he now a officer and no I don't think that is appropriate

Response by SGT Edward Toporek made May 15 at 2018 9:56 PM

SGT Edward Toporek — Tue, 15 May 2018 21:56:51 -0400

I wore every badge I earned because I was proud of my accomplishment. And I still do.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 10:47 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 10:47:20 -0400

To the best of my knowledge, there is nothing in AR 650-1 precluding their wear by an officer. But, at the same time, I was brought up that officers didn't wear qualifications badges (marksmanship, drivers, etc.). But, it seems things have changed in the culture, and everyone wants to have as many little shiny things as they can get. I have strong opinions concerning this trend, but will reserve them to spare some feelings and remain professional.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2018 3:39 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 May 2018 15:39:54 -0400

Regulations don't specifically prohibit officers from wearing Marksmanship Badges although DA PAM 670-1, 20-15b states: ...Soldiers may wear marksmanship badges unless they fail to qualify in accordance with AR 350–1 or are exempt from qualification by Army regulations.
In general, references to "soldiers" usually implies enlisted personnel and not officers. Group 5 badges (Diver badges, Driver and Mechanic Badges, and Parachute Rigger Badges) are usually awarded based on an MOS Qualification. Since the officer does not hold that MOS, or is not employed as a "Driver","Mechanic", or "Operator", it is inappropriate for him or her to wear that badge. In addition, it is generally viewed that an officer who would wear these badges is trying to identify more as an enlisted person than an officer and can effect how an officer is rated. I once knew of an officer that always wore the Drill Sergeant Badge that he earned as an enlisted soldier, and although he was authorized to wear the badge (he had earned it) we believed that this was the discriminating factor that resulted in him not being promoted (once he reached Field Grade level) due to the fact that he wore the badge as part of his DA Photo submitted to the promotion board.

Response by LCpl Charles Robey made May 27 at 2018 3:39 AM

LCpl Charles Robey — Sun, 27 May 2018 03:39:14 -0400

What the hell is a driver's bagde?!!

Response by SFC Geoff Berner made May 29 at 2018 5:43 PM

SFC Geoff Berner — Tue, 29 May 2018 17:43:14 -0400

The different badges show the skills one has attained. So yes wear it.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2018 8:07 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 May 2018 20:07:01 -0400

Regs say you can.
Tradition says you don't.
Just like marksmanship awards.

Response by SPC Cheryl Bottass made May 30 at 2018 5:47 PM

SPC Cheryl Bottass — Wed, 30 May 2018 17:47:34 -0400

Yes.earned in service

Response by MGySgt Jerry Suarez made Jun 3 at 2018 9:56 PM

MGySgt Jerry Suarez — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 21:56:04 -0400

Unless it's against the rules which I wouldn't see why since its an Army badge you earned it wear it.

Response by CPT George Langley made Jun 4 at 2018 1:25 AM

CPT George Langley — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 01:25:38 -0400

Having seen many answers so far, I can sum it up for you with this: If you earned it, you can wear it and an enlisted person is expected to wear all such badges. However, I would have to look up the regs to see whether there is a maximum number of badges that can be worn at any one time.
For officers, it is optional in part because of that "expectation of expertise" but I have never heard of an officer being told to not wear them. Also, some officers just don't care about marksmanship because it is not part of their job. Example: Doctor, Dentist, etc. In my case I had the Expert Infantry Badge which includes expert marksmanship so I didn't worry about it, and let's face it, everybody who graduates basic training gets some kind of marksmanship badge, but only those who qualified as expert will actually want to wear it.
Someone mentioned the Drill Sergeant Badge. Of course anyone who ever earned one will wear it! It is not as easy to get as most other badges. No insult intended. That is just the way it is.

Response by COL Dan Pipes made Jun 4 at 2018 3:07 PM

COL Dan Pipes — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 15:07:32 -0400

Nope. There are too many badges and awards and barely earned medals as it is... Why clutter up your rack with things from your time before you became an officer? Kind of silly, unless, perhaps a 2LT is trying to show his soldiers that he, " gets it." But, still, they will figure that out for themselves quickly.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2018 12:37 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 Jun 2018 00:37:32 -0400

He can wear it if he wants. I’m prior enlisted and wear an NCOPD medal, and an old boss told me I shouldn’t. He said that many officers look down on those of us who were prior enlisted. My enlisted MOS was 88m. I might not wear the driving badge, but kudos to the guy if he wants to.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2018 7:09 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 Jun 2018 07:09:33 -0400

I wouldn't

Response by LCDR Ernest Heassler made Jun 8 at 2018 9:30 PM

LCDR Ernest Heassler — Fri, 08 Jun 2018 21:30:25 -0400

I'm retired Navy, what is a Driver's Badge? No equivalent insignia in the nav. Is there also a walk and chew gum badge?

Response by Maj Thomas Lawrence made Jun 10 at 2018 10:35 AM

Maj Thomas Lawrence — Sun, 10 Jun 2018 10:35:27 -0400

Yup

Response by CPT David Miller made Jun 11 at 2018 12:46 PM

CPT David Miller — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 12:46:28 -0400

I earned my qualification badges as an officer. The Wheeled Driver badge was awarded after I logged over 10 thousand accident-free miles in a GOV while on recruiting duty. The Expert Marksmanship badge has bars for rifle and pistol qualifications. I was also allowed a tank weapon's bar, but could not find one. Now they are found in mail order shops.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Jun 11 at 2018 12:57 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 12:57:12 -0400

IMHO, not really, Unless they are branched Transportation/Logistics.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2018 6:56 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 06:56:26 -0400

I don't think anyone should wear the driver's badge

Response by SCPO Brian Moats made Jun 18 at 2018 5:11 AM

SCPO Brian Moats — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 05:11:37 -0400

If you earn it. Wear it I always felt.

Response by TSgt Gary McPherson made Jun 19 at 2018 1:31 PM

TSgt Gary McPherson — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 13:31:10 -0400

Ribbons yes but badges no.Have Marine shooting badges but can not wearing them on my USAF uniform.Badges should be for that one service only.

Response by SPC Kirste Lewis made Jun 21 at 2018 12:41 AM

SPC Kirste Lewis — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 00:41:35 -0400

The drivers badge should be worn regardless of rank because unlike other badges the drivers badge shows that you are close if not already considered SME. You don't have to score a certain amount of points to get it but you do have to have so many miles driven that you can't be anything but an expert it takes years and hard work to earn it. It requires a minimum of 10k miles driven and if you have one like mine a master drivers badge with M device it means that I've driven over 10k miles in a combat zone. A driver's badge to motor t is like a CIB to infantry. It's a point of pride aswell as skill.

Response by LTC Alice Monego Roosa (Saddler) made Jun 24 at 2018 10:34 AM

LTC Alice Monego Roosa (Saddler) — Sun, 24 Jun 2018 10:34:09 -0400

The only one I've seen worn is Drill Sergeant Liver badge.

Response by PO1 Michael Brouty made Jun 24 at 2018 7:28 PM

PO1 Michael Brouty — Sun, 24 Jun 2018 19:28:32 -0400

He earned it fair and square. He should be allowed to wear it !!

Response by MAJ Mark Wilson made Jun 27 at 2018 7:40 AM

MAJ Mark Wilson — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 07:40:53 -0400

I miss read, thought you had Dive and not Drive Badge. And yes, any badge, tab, or award earned while enlisted is still earned and will appear on their ORB. Typically officers do not wear qualification badges, and to be honest I'm not sure why, just know i never did.

Response by MAJ Bruce Davie made Jun 27 at 2018 7:45 AM

MAJ Bruce Davie — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 07:45:02 -0400

Back in the day (1979-1992), I became a "Maverick;" went from E7, 91C40 to 2LT & elected VSI as a MAJ, 91B5F5K. It appeared to me that weapons qualification & others were not being worn by officers. However, I proudly wore my EFMB & my Master Instructor Badge. MAJ.

Response by SSG Mike Merritt made Jul 6 at 2018 5:13 PM

SSG Mike Merritt — Fri, 06 Jul 2018 17:13:57 -0400

Fuck yeah... wear everything you earned

Response by LTC Jesse Edwards made Jul 15 at 2018 11:26 AM

LTC Jesse Edwards — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 11:26:09 -0400

"A" reason an officer, particularly a junior officer, may want to wear a badge earned while enlisted would be to have a visible sign for enlisted Soldiers who engage him or her so that they can appreciate that they are dealing with a prior service officer. A butter bar with enlisted time is generally a more competent officer than one who just did ROTC... at least in my opinion.

Response by CPO Albert Kennison made Jul 15 at 2018 9:07 PM

CPO Albert Kennison — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 21:07:44 -0400

I have no idea what a driver's badge is, but if you earn any award, you should be able to wear it. ENLISTED or MUSTANG it doesn't matter.

Response by Maj Rev. Fr. Samuel WATERS - Traditional RC Priest made Jul 16 at 2018 11:33 AM

Maj Rev. Fr. Samuel WATERS - Traditional RC Priest — Mon, 16 Jul 2018 11:33:37 -0400

I agree!!!!!! If he earned it, he or she should wear it!!!!!!!! Their rank at the time of earning it has nothing to do with their wearing it!!!!!!!

Fr. Sam

Response by LTJG Richard Bruce made Jul 16 at 2018 11:32 PM

LTJG Richard Bruce — Mon, 16 Jul 2018 23:32:10 -0400

Always read the rule book;
http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/Uniform/docs/r670_1.pdf

r670_1.pdf

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Response by SGT Michael Rivera made Jul 18 at 2018 6:45 PM

SGT Michael Rivera — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 18:45:03 -0400

If they earned it they should wear it.

Response by SPC Michael Clark made Jul 19 at 2018 11:30 PM

SPC Michael Clark — Thu, 19 Jul 2018 23:30:34 -0400

If you earned it wear it.

That's what the Dress Uniform is about.

Have you not seen an officer with a Drill Sergeant Badge?

Many, often the best, officers have been prior enlisted... also some of the worst officers have been prior enlisted.

The Driver's Badge is a permanent award... many service members opt to not wear temporary qualification badge for a streamlined and often considered more professional look.

When it comes to what goes on the left side of your chest much of it is optional... however, if you wear it be able to prove it.

Response by CW3 Michael Clifford made Jul 22 at 2018 5:42 PM

CW3 Michael Clifford — Sun, 22 Jul 2018 17:42:22 -0400

I spent from 1974-1982 as an enlisted MP/CID Agent before I made Warrant and in true warrant officer form I’d eat anyone’s fingers like french fries if they took any of my badges (marksmanship and driver’s badges) off of my uniform. Nothing like pulling back a bloody stump to get the idea you pissed me off.

Response by MGySgt Dennis Lecher made Jul 22 at 2018 9:21 PM

MGySgt Dennis Lecher — Sun, 22 Jul 2018 21:21:49 -0400

No idea what a driver badge, if you earned it wear it.

Response by SGT George Edward Brown made Jul 22 at 2018 10:21 PM

SGT George Edward Brown — Sun, 22 Jul 2018 22:21:10 -0400

I NEVER GOT NO STINKIN BADGES FOR BEING A DRIVER ??? THATS LIKE GETTING A DIPLOMA FOR GRADUATING KINDERGARDEN ???

Response by CW3 John Thompson made Jul 24 at 2018 10:14 PM

CW3 John Thompson — Tue, 24 Jul 2018 22:14:21 -0400

If you earned it and awarded..... Then wear.

Response by Cpl Geoff Smith made Jul 28 at 2018 3:02 PM

Cpl Geoff Smith — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 15:02:35 -0400

If earned, should be worn with pride, like a previously enlisted wearing a good conduct medal. It was earned!

Response by Sgt Jason Schaeffer made Aug 1 at 2018 7:21 PM

Sgt Jason Schaeffer — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 19:21:37 -0400

Of course he/she should. If it’s earned it should be worn.

Response by MAJ Bruce Knapp made Aug 7 at 2018 7:46 AM

MAJ Bruce Knapp — Tue, 07 Aug 2018 07:46:09 -0400

If this were my situation I would not wear it.

Response by MSgt Lawrence Freeman made Aug 8 at 2018 2:45 AM

MSgt Lawrence Freeman — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 02:45:57 -0400

If you earned it, wear it !!!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2018 10:47 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Aug 2018 22:47:36 -0400

Traditionally, officers do not wear skill badges. Presumably because we don't have any skills. I was enlisted for 12 years before commissioning, and quit being skilled shortly after OCS. They don't let you see the map until you are a CPT...and every time you try to do something that doesn't involve power point, an NCO says, "I'll take care of that for you, sir.". I didn't want to wear a badge that reminded me of back when they trusted me to do things.

Response by CSM Charley Heimerdinger made Aug 13 at 2018 7:32 PM

CSM Charley Heimerdinger — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 19:32:44 -0400

Every Soldier has the right to wear the qualification badges that they have been awarded as long as they are current on the qualification. For example you quality expert in rife and later drop down to sharpshooter you wear sharpshooter, if there is no disqualification for a badge such as Air Assault you wear the badge for the duration of your service.

Response by SSG Ryan Molton made Aug 15 at 2018 10:19 AM

SSG Ryan Molton — Wed, 15 Aug 2018 10:19:07 -0400

What is a drivers badge ?

Response by Sgt Jack O'Brien made Aug 15 at 2018 1:00 PM

Sgt Jack O'Brien — Wed, 15 Aug 2018 13:00:32 -0400

You earned it you wear it, if it's in your SRB you wear it.

Response by LTC Michael Sternfeld made Aug 16 at 2018 3:03 PM

LTC Michael Sternfeld — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 15:03:16 -0400

With service from 1966 to 2006 and going from E-1 to 0-5 in the Army I have some definite opinions on wearing qualifications badges. I first enlisted in 1966, went to Vietnam in 69-69 and separated as a SGT E-5. Iwas commissioned through ROTC in 1972 andI strongly support officers wearing marksmanship related badges the have legitimately earned on the rifle, pistol range. I later served in ODS in 1991 and OIF in 2005-2006 under USAR call ups.
Drivers badges, well that is a different matter. If I was a WO in a truck company I would say definitely. Why, because it related to the work that many of the EM and NCOs (who that WO supervises) does.

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Aug 19 at 2018 9:02 PM

CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) — Sun, 19 Aug 2018 21:02:26 -0400

No. Just no. Officers should not wear a Driver's Badge. Ever. I do not wear bolo badges either even though I qualify expert every time. Ribbons and decorations are different.

Can you? Yes. Should you? No, especially if you're a lieutenant (just trying to save you some grief ladies and gents...). I guarantee you some senior officer (Commander) will tell you to take that stuff off at some point in your career, sooner than later.

If you insist on wearing badges for driving or marksmanship, make sure you qualify the same in every badge so you can have a ladder with about ten things you qualified on. It's better than showing how inconsistent you are and you will look more impressive. Honest.

Response by MAJ Fred Peterman made Aug 22 at 2018 12:13 AM

MAJ Fred Peterman — Wed, 22 Aug 2018 00:13:24 -0400

I wore my crewmember wings until I graduated Flight Nurse School, then I was allowed to wear either, but not both. I wore the Flight Nurse Wings.

Response by LT Louis McKellar made Aug 22 at 2018 11:20 AM

LT Louis McKellar — Wed, 22 Aug 2018 11:20:01 -0400

I thought everything transferred over if you earned it.

Response by LTC Jr Hutto made Aug 24 at 2018 2:00 PM

LTC Jr Hutto — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 14:00:32 -0400

When I was a USMC NCO, I observed that ALL Marines of ALL ranks wore their individual marksmanship badges/medals (whatever). I considered this pretty normal until I was commissioned in the US Army and learned officers don't normally wear their weapons qual badges because of the some lame excuse that all are supposedly experts. Personal opinion and observation showed me it was more like many couldn't qualify with a service rifle or pistol if their life depended on it and so if they couldn't wear the 'expert' badge, they wouldn't wear anything at all. Personally, I think that's pretty lame.
Now, if I had a 'drivers' badge, I don't think I would wear it as an officer. Something about me being reminded not to drive any of my vehicles as a young 2LT because 1) If the Army wanted me to drive a jeep, they wouldn't have issued me a driver with it and 2) if I was driving one of my tanks or M113's (Cavalry Plt), then I wasn't 'leading' my Platoon. All that's subjective and personal opinion, but I don't think I'd ask another officer to remove any permanent award they'd earned regardless of what rank they'd earned it from.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Aug 25 at 2018 6:38 PM

CH (LTC) Robert Leroe — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 18:38:51 -0400

I think it is to any officer's advantage to show he/she had prior enlisted service. It says "I have experiential understanding of what you are going through. "

Response by MSgt Dale Johnson made Aug 27 at 2018 8:50 AM

MSgt Dale Johnson — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 08:50:52 -0400

As a leader of men the fact that you have earned such a badge and are proud to wear it shows you have pride in the accomplishments of the men you lead. If I found out an officer appointed above me refused to wear such a device I would have a bit less respect for them. But that's how I roll.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2018 9:03 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Aug 2018 09:03:49 -0400

It was always explained to me that the reasoning behind officers not wearing badges is because if they did not qualify at the same level or higher than those they lead, the Soldiers wouldn't respect them as much.

Response by CDR Jim M. made Aug 31 at 2018 7:46 PM

CDR Jim M. — Fri, 31 Aug 2018 19:46:37 -0400

I wear my National Defense ribbon from the Vietnam period when I was USMC enlisted, on my medals and ribbon bar as a USNR Commander. Three Chiefs I knew, who were brought over as newly commissioned ensigns, wore their chief's anchors pinned underneath their collars. I don't wear my rifle and pistol medals from the USMC but I do wear the US Navy weapons qualifying ribbons for rifle and pistol (qualified as an officer as well as an enlisted). I cannot find anything in the books I usually validate with that would prevent you from wearing a designator you earned while enlisted. I know several submarine officers, who got their dolphins as enlisted personnel who wore both pins on uniforms. Personally I think it demonstrates that a former enlisted person has the capability to perform either as an officer or enlisted and makes their opinions more qualified for general acceptance. Just one man's opinion....

Response by Sgt Charles Malcom made Sep 2 at 2018 6:42 PM

Sgt Charles Malcom — Sun, 02 Sep 2018 18:42:30 -0400

He earned the badge (I've never heard of it, but I'm old) he should continue to wear it. Just because he swapped chevrons for bars and stars doesn't take away from an award he has qualified for.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2018 3:22 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 15:22:07 -0400

I knew a prior-enlisted OCS officer (we met when he was a Major, he retired as a LTG) who wore a Drill Sergeant badge with pride. Nobody ever seemed to see anything wrong with that.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2018 10:47 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Sep 2018 10:47:33 -0400

Well, to address that issue, I was enlisted and a officer i do believe if you earned it you should wear it. The issue is really the regulations. Until they change it, we are stuck!! Now that same badge will be annotated on our ORB, so we can stop tripping on that. Officers only want to highlight their leadership capabilities and work they've done, not physical stuff like weapons and driving. We not gonna be doing that anyway, we will have drivers and personnel shooting for us unless the situation changes and we have to do it for ourselves. That's the BLUF....sorry

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2018 10:47 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Sep 2018 10:47:43 -0400

Response by CW4 Robert C. made Sep 8 at 2018 12:52 PM

CW4 Robert C. — Sat, 08 Sep 2018 12:52:25 -0400

If he earned it then yes. Never not wear something that you earned.

Response by 1SG Dave Faust made Sep 13 at 2018 2:41 PM

1SG Dave Faust — Thu, 13 Sep 2018 14:41:17 -0400

Yes, any badge, ribbon or lanyard earned and in your 201 file should be worn on the dress uniform.

Response by MAJ Wiley Winter made Sep 16 at 2018 3:16 PM

MAJ Wiley Winter — Sun, 16 Sep 2018 15:16:45 -0400

Doesn’t the badge require requalification like marksman badges? In that case, no!

Response by SFC Jeremy Smith made Sep 16 at 2018 11:27 PM

SFC Jeremy Smith — Sun, 16 Sep 2018 23:27:19 -0400

Non infantry do not get to wear an EIB when they earn it, But infantry cant wear a EMB if they were never a medic. But the divers badge has no rank requirement. But I am pretty sure a BN CDR or higher is not going to allow one of his officers to trot around driving when you have a platoon or higher to run...or an XO. Maybe if you were an OC/T for a couple years but soon as a command or staff position opens up you will be out of there before you even get a chance to earn it. The requirements are all consecutive...cannot do three months here and seven months a couple years later.

Response by SGT Frank Pritchett made Sep 23 at 2018 10:06 AM

SGT Frank Pritchett — Sun, 23 Sep 2018 10:06:36 -0400

Officers that under take the same challenges as enlisted earnest their respect and fortitude. If they earn a badge then they should be able to wear it. My greatest respect for an Officer goes to LTC Geiss ,27th Maintenance Support, 1st CAV., when he put on coveralls and crawled under a truck with a wrench to help with PMCS. This is what he did.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Sep 29 at 2018 4:22 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Sat, 29 Sep 2018 04:22:37 -0400

If he earned it, then yeah.

Response by Capt Rick Holderman made Sep 30 at 2018 10:40 PM

Capt Rick Holderman — Sun, 30 Sep 2018 22:40:56 -0400

I flew as a flight crewmember for over eight years. I earned my Senior Aircrew member wings the hard way. I will wear them until, as the good gentle person said, someone shows me a regulation saying that I cannot.

Frederick W. Holderman,
Captain, USAF(Retired)

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2018 5:55 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 05:55:10 -0400

There is absolutely nothing wrong with wearing any badge that you earned. That being said, my father (commissioned 1951) and a mustang from WWII, taught me that enlisted badges are discarded when you are commissioned and some are not. One example, there aren't very many officers that wouldn't wear their aviation crew-member badge. I wear my good conduct medal and pretty much leave it at that. Then again, I never earned a badge like yours while enlisted.

Response by SGT John Graham made Oct 6 at 2018 7:22 PM

SGT John Graham — Sat, 06 Oct 2018 19:22:06 -0400

Unless specific regulations prohibit the wearing I would say wear them. I always respected the officers who were prior enlisted.

Response by PO2 Steven Michaeli made Oct 7 at 2018 9:17 PM

PO2 Steven Michaeli — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 21:17:52 -0400

Yes. With the exceptions of enlistment or combat stripes all else are transferable

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2018 7:30 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 Oct 2018 19:30:35 -0400

In 29 years of active service from tactical thru strategic, I never saw an officer wear a driver’s badge and very few wore marksmanship badges. But I can’t disagree with the view of “if you earned it you can wear it”

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2018 8:31 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 08:31:45 -0400

I wear all the shit I earned while enlisted and while in the USAF. Does make for some funny looks when someone sees my Air Force ribbons.

Response by LTC Ronald Stephens made Oct 14 at 2018 1:06 PM

LTC Ronald Stephens — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 13:06:45 -0400

Mixed feelings about that. I'm a mustang. While stationed in Korea in 1967-68 as an EM I was sent to Camp Sitman aka Imjin Scout School. Back then it was a 22day 11B program force fed to the trainees with a firehose. It was designed specifically for policing the DMZ. Many 11Bs were there also. All of my tentmates were 11Bs. We also learned to use explosives. I did well in spite of being a field artilleryman and earned the Imjin Scout badge and patch. I never patrolled the "Z" but was on a QRF when we had to deal with a handful of NK infiltrators farther south; missed the action though as we were a blocking element. Back to the subject: we were advised that when we left the 2ID we could no longer wear the insignia as that was a program for 2ID personnel only. Disappointing but it made sense to me. I still treasure the badge and still have one of the patches worn on fatigues and ODs. My completion certificate hangs framed on my den wall along with my commission, OCS diploma, and my C&GS diploma.

Response by LTC Ronald Stephens made Oct 14 at 2018 1:54 PM

LTC Ronald Stephens — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 13:54:48 -0400

Well, as an example, Lieutenant Tommy Franks earned the combat aircrewman's wings as an artillery officer and aerial artillery observer in VN. I seem to recall he wore them as 2AD DivArty Commander at Ft. Hood in 1988 and was still wearing them as a general at the start of the War on Terror in 2001. Much of it has to do with the genesis of the award. It has to be service wide I believe and elligibility defined in the "Awards and Decorations" AR 670-1.

Response by CPT Samuel Carlson made Oct 14 at 2018 9:40 PM

CPT Samuel Carlson — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 21:40:30 -0400

It would be a rare occasion for an officer to have qualified for award of a Driver's Badge while an officer, but not if they were prior enlisted. I don't have the Reg here at home but do have the Army Officers Guide. The Officer's Guide illustrates how weapons and drivers qualification badges should be worn. All that being said... I find it a rare occasion to see an officer wearing weapons or drivers qualification badges.

Response by COL Thom Brooks made Oct 17 at 2018 6:06 PM

COL Thom Brooks — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 18:06:06 -0400

No regulatory issues, but I haven't seen any officers who were prior enlisted wearing this particular badge. I certainly wouldn't have any issue with an officer wearing any duly earned badge, regardless at what rank he/she earned it.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Oct 18 at 2018 4:23 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Thu, 18 Oct 2018 16:23:07 -0400

Any badge earned, you wear, regardless. I once briefed, on a weekly basis, an AF Colonel who very proudly wore the Ranger patch he had earned while an enlisted Army soldier. To be an officer and not wear those things you earned is kind of its own slap in the face of those who serve under you as the message is "it doesn't mean anything". The more you can relate to those who serve under you by having done what you may require them to do the more respect beyond that required you will receive.

Response by CPT William Jones made Oct 20 at 2018 3:53 PM

CPT William Jones — Sat, 20 Oct 2018 15:53:37 -0400

As someone who has walked both sides of the fence, I can see this issue from both perspectives. Some may feel the officer is “showing off”, some may feel Officers are expected to be proficient in many fields, some may see it as the officer having worked hard to get to where they are. That said, it is the Officer that has to reckon with who they are are what they put on their uniform. You earned it, wear it with pride. Be proud of what was accomplished. In some ways its like saying should an officer wear an Army Commendation medal that was earned when they were an E-4? Yes!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2018 12:46 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 00:46:27 -0400

The Officer should most definitely wear the badge. He earned it and it will show his subordinate that he has been the and done that. It is a lead my example type thing.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2018 8:52 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 20:52:27 -0400

Absolutely, if you have the orders for it, then wear it. Just as one would wear awards earned in the Reserves or National Guard once you transfer to Active duty.

Response by SFC Michael Bush made Oct 24 at 2018 11:08 AM

SFC Michael Bush — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 11:08:05 -0400

Of course it should be worn if earned. The only exceptions would be universal. In other words a badge that is no longer authorized for enlisted or officer such as my Jungle Expert Badge.

Response by LTC Ken Connolly made Oct 26 at 2018 10:43 PM

LTC Ken Connolly — Fri, 26 Oct 2018 22:43:24 -0400

Okay if the regulation allows it.

Response by Maj Pete Siegel made Oct 26 at 2018 11:09 PM

Maj Pete Siegel — Fri, 26 Oct 2018 23:09:55 -0400

I was an AF MSgt (E-7) when I went to OTS. I made sure all ribbons and my Senior Enlisted Aircrew wings were on my uniform. Upperclass OTs, especially the non-priors, did not bother me or my prior service classmates. One of the Flight Commanders wanted to rent my medals for the Graduation Dining-Out ;-)

Response by PO1 Todd B. made Oct 30 at 2018 4:15 PM

PO1 Todd B. — Tue, 30 Oct 2018 16:15:39 -0400

If you earned it you wear it. Ask yourself this, if you earned the Medal of Honor as an enlisted, would you wear it as an officer? Same thing.

Response by Sgt Tony Garland made Oct 30 at 2018 9:08 PM

Sgt Tony Garland — Tue, 30 Oct 2018 21:08:52 -0400

No offense intended here but this must be an army participation medal. I say if it makes them feel better wear it.

Response by MAJ Stephen Rex made Nov 2 at 2018 7:57 PM

MAJ Stephen Rex — Fri, 02 Nov 2018 19:57:03 -0400

Response by TSgt Alejandro Cuervo made Nov 3 at 2018 10:34 AM

TSgt Alejandro Cuervo — Sat, 03 Nov 2018 10:34:02 -0400

There is no reason why an officer shouldn't be allowed to wear earn decorations or badges, just because he or she was prior enlisted. It doesn't make them any less qualified than when they earned it, I know that Navy changes color from silver to gold because of going from enlisted to commissioned.

Response by MAJ Richard P Thompson made Nov 8 at 2018 6:58 PM

MAJ Richard P Thompson — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 18:58:38 -0500

I served in two branches of service as enlisted and officer, 33 years and retired. The US Army Drivers Badge is awarded to Enlisted Personnel not Warrant or Commissioned Officers. However I do believe all Officers below the rank of Brigadier General should be required to ware both rifle and pistol qualification badges on class A and dress uniforms. Combat Arms Warrant Officers and Commissioned Officers qualify every 12 months, ALL others every 24 months. Enlisted personnel every 12 month with there assigned weapons. Military Police all grades and positions every 6 months with pistol.

Response by SPC Brent Melton made Nov 9 at 2018 8:22 PM

SPC Brent Melton — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 20:22:31 -0500

I can't imagine a Tomb Guard who transitioned to the dark side not wearing their badge.

Response by SGM Herman Whitley made Nov 12 at 2018 9:17 PM

SGM Herman Whitley — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 21:17:12 -0500

The Driver's Badge rather than the weapons qualification badge is awarded on individual orders. My gut tells me that you could wear it as an officer, but the proper guidance should be provided in AR 670-1.

Response by 1LT Luke Flowers made Nov 14 at 2018 7:42 PM

1LT Luke Flowers — Wed, 14 Nov 2018 19:42:33 -0500

I was straight up told not to wear certain things because “I was an Officer now.”
I’ve also known others who didn’t wear awards or special skill badges or even combat patches because they didn’t let “their service record define them.”

Regardless of what dorks told me I still wear whatever I earn because the primary point of the whole matter of uniform items is espirit de corps and to indemnify individual and unit accomplishments.

Nobody who has done real things needs a little symbol to make them feel competent but it’s one way we in the military remind ourselves what we’ve been through and what we’ve done.

I think it’s total bullshit the delicate egos of other officers would come up with such way of thinking that this is even a question or an issue.

You earn it; you wear it.

Response by SSG Carlos Garcia made Nov 16 at 2018 8:13 PM

SSG Carlos Garcia — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 20:13:01 -0500

In actuality you don't earn a "Driver's Badge" by knowledge, but by having a one year free of accident as a driver to either wheel, track or both. Although he earned it as an enlisted it doesn't mean he may wear it.

Response by PO1 Mike Meehan made Nov 17 at 2018 5:48 PM

PO1 Mike Meehan — Sat, 17 Nov 2018 17:48:00 -0500

Navy rule is you can wear the qual badge even once commissioned, unless you earn the Officer qual that supercedes it, for instance in the case of Submarine warfare qualification.

Response by SSG Ricky Johnson made Nov 18 at 2018 9:59 AM

SSG Ricky Johnson — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 09:59:04 -0500

If a service member earned a recognition, officer or enlisted, wear it proudly. We are a cumulation of our experiences.

Response by SGM Ronald Cheatom made Nov 18 at 2018 3:26 PM

SGM Ronald Cheatom — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 15:26:36 -0500

A better question. Can an officer, commissioned thru OTC, be allowed to wear a Drill Instructor badge?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2018 11:20 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 23:20:47 -0500

I proudly wear my Drill Sergeant badge. I am proud of my enlisted heritage.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2018 11:21 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 23:21:48 -0500

I proudly wear my Drill Sergeant badge. I am proud of my enlisted heritage. And when I was enlisted, I appreciated knowing that some of the officers I was working under were enlisted first.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2018 7:36 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Dec 2018 07:36:05 -0500

I wear mine all the time.

Response by Sgt Kevin McDonald made Dec 18 at 2018 1:20 PM

Sgt Kevin McDonald — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 13:20:41 -0500

Check the uniform regs for your branch of service. If you are confronted on the issue, don't bother citing this forum.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Dec 31 at 2018 12:12 AM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 00:12:36 -0500

I wouldn’t know.. have you a picture of it? Maybe it would explain it better if we could see it.. I think I got some idea looking at the Lt’s job designation . Different service branches have their regulations.. So I would surmise that
applicable regulations be adhered to
and dig further for an answer..

Response by PO1 Richard Nyberg made Jan 6 at 2019 7:40 PM

PO1 Richard Nyberg — Sun, 06 Jan 2019 19:40:34 -0500

Any officer who was enlisted can wear any medal he earned. Including the Good Conduct medal

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 13 at 2019 10:20 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Jan 2019 10:20:31 -0500

I proudly wear my ESWS pin. It's part of my history. When I earn my PAMO pin, ESWS will still be proudly worn in the secondary position.

Response by SGM Debra Bradshaw made Jan 16 at 2019 6:28 PM

SGM Debra Bradshaw — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 18:28:07 -0500

According to regulation, and unless otherwise specified like when you go from national guard to army reserve and lose state ribbons, you are to wear all ribbons earned or none.

Response by SPC Daniel Rankin made Jan 20 at 2019 11:05 PM

SPC Daniel Rankin — Sun, 20 Jan 2019 23:05:15 -0500

I know that as a mechanic it is an honor to have been awarded this badge. It takes over ten thousand miles of driving with our an accident to earn the badge. So yes it should be worn on the uniform of the officer. He earned it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2019 8:18 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 20:18:58 -0500

Most officers wouldn't want to wear bling that lets people know that they were privates during the same point in their career that other officers were platoon leaders.

That's just my opinion, you can wear whatever AR 670-1 authorizes you to wear.

Response by PO3 Scot Fahey made Jan 25 at 2019 12:26 PM

PO3 Scot Fahey — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 12:26:42 -0500

Mustangs, (officers who are former enlisted) often earned awards, US NAVY (back in the 80's) you earned the award. so a junior officer with enlisted awards was proper. 2019 , well many rules have changed for sure

Response by SPC Alejandro Martinez made Feb 3 at 2019 11:07 PM

SPC Alejandro Martinez — Sun, 03 Feb 2019 23:07:08 -0500

yes

Response by SPC Alejandro Martinez made Feb 3 at 2019 11:07 PM

SPC Alejandro Martinez — Sun, 03 Feb 2019 23:07:30 -0500

yes

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2019 11:03 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 23:03:11 -0500

I am not sure if the drivers medal carries over nor do I know why an officer would want to wear one . You would have to check the refs to see if it’s autheized. I don’t think if I had gone from enlisted to officer I would where a drivers badge

Response by SGT William Fyvie made Feb 17 at 2019 9:10 AM

SGT William Fyvie — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 09:10:50 -0500

I earned the CMB in Nam serving with 1/5 Mech 25th ID. After my 3yrs 6 mo in the Army I received my commission in the USAF , I became a Reg Nurse. I wore my CMB and Army GCM ribbon but I got consistent flak from other officers (mostly administrative types), I had to carry my Army DD 214 ......I earned them.....I wore them! Proudly!

Response by 2LT Earl Dean made Feb 17 at 2019 12:37 PM

2LT Earl Dean — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 12:37:38 -0500

It was brought up to me a number of times that if it is awarded and notedin your 201 you should be wearing it in your uniform or you would be out of uniform. I was awarded a medal by England and it was noted in my 201. I was told I must wear it

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Feb 23 at 2019 7:56 AM

1SG James Kelly — Sat, 23 Feb 2019 07:56:32 -0500

Yes, if he wants to.

Especially if he's Transportation or Maintenance.

Response by PO3 Adam Stoflet made Feb 23 at 2019 10:08 AM

PO3 Adam Stoflet — Sat, 23 Feb 2019 10:08:12 -0500

In the Navy I saw this all the time with the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialists (ESWS) pin many officers who were enlisted and earned this would wear it until they obtained the officer variant. In my opinion if you earned it and you maintain the requirements to wear it who can stop you from wearing it.

Response by 1SG Ronald Beasley made Feb 24 at 2019 2:02 PM

1SG Ronald Beasley — Sun, 24 Feb 2019 14:02:14 -0500

General of the Army Bradley was very proud of his Good Conduct metal. He always wore it on his dress uniforms!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2019 10:07 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 24 Feb 2019 22:07:24 -0500

As a retired medic and personnel officer, there is nothing in the regulation that says you CAN NOT wear any awards and decorations earned despite rank. There is; however, information in AR 670-1 that states awards and decorations earned in other branches or components can be worn but need to be stacked in the appropriate order IAW 600-8-22. The unwritten, unofficial rule of the drivers’ badge for officers is said that we don’t drive vehicles, but as previously stated, it’s unwritten and unofficial.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2019 12:09 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 12:09:58 -0500

It's a violation of what may, or may not, be a fading tradition, not a violation of regulation.
Is wearing them going to impede an officer's career? Extremely doubtful, but it may result in some prodding, especially at a Dining In, or other social occasion. However, you're going to get prodded about something, you may as well pick what it is.

Response by SFC Sfc Darwin Maring, USA Ret made Mar 1 at 2019 2:46 PM

SFC Sfc Darwin Maring, USA Ret — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 14:46:27 -0500

Wear all earned awards or none says this Enlisted Officer.

Response by PO1 Michael Brouty made Mar 3 at 2019 6:10 PM

PO1 Michael Brouty — Sun, 03 Mar 2019 18:10:08 -0500

They earned it.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Mar 11 at 2019 1:17 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Mon, 11 Mar 2019 13:17:55 -0400

Bus driver's badge? If youmean the Transportation specialty ok. An enlisted man becomes an officer, (smart move). But he has qualification badges earned as an enlisted man. I wouldn't be embarrassed if it were me. But what reg says I couldn't wear it as an officer? I've seen officers with 5 level badges from different career fields. And they, some of them were former enlisted. I even served with two former Combat Controllers, who became officers wearing their senior jump wings, enlisted aircrew badges on both their fatigues and blues. Their new career field was just plain old air traffic controllers. They knew where they came from, did the same job, only they weren't jumping out of aircraft, driving around in radio equipped jeeps controlling aircraft and living in the bush any more.

Response by CMDCM John F. "Doc" Bradshaw made Mar 16 at 2019 3:07 AM

CMDCM John F. "Doc" Bradshaw — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 03:07:46 -0400

If you earned it, wear it!!! Even Mustangers!!! Just my opinion!!! Doc Bradshaw

Response by A1C Stephen Dohrmann made Mar 23 at 2019 9:21 PM

A1C Stephen Dohrmann — Sat, 23 Mar 2019 21:21:14 -0400

I received certification for truck drivers on the flight line when I was stationed in S. E. Asia back in the late ‘60s. Don’t recall receiving any badge.

Response by PO1 Martin Hall made Mar 24 at 2019 9:26 PM

PO1 Martin Hall — Sun, 24 Mar 2019 21:26:00 -0400

Why not? It was earned......

Response by MAJ T Ferris made Mar 24 at 2019 10:58 PM

MAJ T Ferris — Sun, 24 Mar 2019 22:58:01 -0400

An Army Officer does not wear enlisted badges. I asked when I graduated from Officer Candidate School. The reg May have changed since I Retired.

Response by SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. made Mar 25 at 2019 2:16 AM

SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 02:16:34 -0400

Yes. I was a Unit driver trainer in Germany and I had 2 2Lt's qualify for a drivers badge. Both had been assigned as Motor Officers for my unit. They got all of the practice and skill testing they needed on a 5 ton wrecker and a deuce and half. Both had over 20,000 miles of driving time also.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2019 10:03 AM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 10:03:19 -0400

Understanding military politics as I do, I would say that it would NOT be advantageous to an officer to highlight his previous status as enlisted.

Response by MAJ Frank VansEvers made Mar 25 at 2019 11:46 AM

MAJ Frank VansEvers — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 11:46:56 -0400

u earned it wear it proudly, airborne

Response by SPC Jeff Hogan, M.S., M.P.S. made Mar 25 at 2019 2:38 PM

SPC Jeff Hogan, M.S., M.P.S. — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 14:38:32 -0400

Funny thing about this particular badge. I actually earned this badge while deployed the the gulf. But, like most of the records from the gulf it never made it back stateside.

I wore the badge the whole time I was enlisted and it wasn't until I got my DD214 that I learned that it wasn't on there. Of course by then I was already out.

Response by LTC Warren Miller made Mar 26 at 2019 9:40 PM

LTC Warren Miller — Tue, 26 Mar 2019 21:40:24 -0400

I caved to the “officers don’t wear those” with the qualification badges, but mainly because I was always 1-2 shots off expert (damn it). And while nobody could tell the differences between my enlisted and officer AAMs, most NCOs clearly took note of my NCOPD ribbon.

Response by SSG Ricky Johnson made Mar 27 at 2019 3:15 PM

SSG Ricky Johnson — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 15:15:35 -0400

I know the regs say different and I’ve been out for almost 40 years , but i say if you earned it, wear it. To diminish a persons accomplishments is not right. Its like its ok to disregard history because an ROTC commissioned officer didn’t get one. Same as a post i seen a few days ago where someone ordered that combat patches not be worn stateside because newbies were offended.

Response by CWO4 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2019 4:54 PM

CWO4 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 16:54:52 -0400

Wow!!! They issue a badge for that too? Next thing you know they will have, "I did not make it to the next war badge or oh men or an immediate action badge or I forgot too wake up, its time for NCO Duty Badge or you don't want to go the war badge!!!" Let just make it up as we go.

Response by MAJ Dallas D. made Mar 27 at 2019 5:55 PM

MAJ Dallas D. — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 17:55:49 -0400

I will say I did not wear mine. I earned it as a E-4 but would not wear it as an officer but that was me.

Response by MCPO Thomas Morris made Mar 28 at 2019 1:49 AM

MCPO Thomas Morris — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 01:49:29 -0400

Don't about the army, ret navy wire all my enlisted awards was questioned by a few college officers but no problems

Response by SFC William Bethea made Mar 28 at 2019 6:35 PM

SFC William Bethea — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 18:35:02 -0400

If you earned it you can wear it.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2019 1:26 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Mar 2019 01:26:26 -0400

Anything below an Expert Marksmanship qualification badge has the misnomer of being a mark of "less than an example" to the troops, in which case, most Officers won't wear them - takes away from thier shiney stuff...
The Driver's badge on the other hand is a permanently awarded skill badge, for an achievement obtained that can never be diminished. As a Group 5 award, same as a Divers or Riggers badge, according to AR 670-1, as an earned skill badge it is yours to wear or not wear. I have seen several prior enlisted Officers wearing thier previously earned Drill Sergeants badge; why not the drivers as well?

Response by SSG Richard Brue made Mar 30 at 2019 4:10 AM

SSG Richard Brue — Sat, 30 Mar 2019 04:10:12 -0400

I think they should be able to. It's the one award that a person earns on their own merit. It's the one award that can never be taken away.

Response by LTC John Bush made Mar 30 at 2019 9:00 AM

LTC John Bush — Sat, 30 Mar 2019 09:00:15 -0400

YES has always been correct but most do not wear good conduct ribbon as it is a given if they have earned a commission

Response by SSG Larry R. Jones made Mar 30 at 2019 2:48 PM

SSG Larry R. Jones — Sat, 30 Mar 2019 14:48:54 -0400

I feel If it's an earned badge there should be no reason why they shouldn't be allowed to.
It like the "Blue Rope" officers don't wear them, I know several officers who were enlisted and don't wear the "Blue Rope" but they wear their CIB, if it is earned it should be allowed. Its like ribbons. If go from one branch to another you can wear your awarded ribbons.

Response by 1SG Robert Siedenburg made Mar 30 at 2019 3:47 PM

1SG Robert Siedenburg — Sat, 30 Mar 2019 15:47:20 -0400

An officer is authorized to wear any badge ever earned, whether while enlisted or while an officer, including marksmanship, driving, and good conduct medal. If the award is in the officer's 201 file, it's game on!

Response by CW2 Donald Kempf made Mar 31 at 2019 9:47 AM

CW2 Donald Kempf — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 09:47:37 -0400

Badges and awards are based on the individual and not rank. In OCS and WOCS (yes, I was both commissioned and warrant) not only were we encouraged to wear our enlisted awards, the cadre required it. Most sergeants are savvy enough to recognize that officers with enlisted awards worn were likely more experienced and made better decisions.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2019 12:29 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 00:29:27 -0400

As a Mustang, I had accumulated the normal skill badges before I was commissioned. Having been an NCOES and OCS instructor, I learned that tradition was that officers did not wear skill badges, unless they were Airborne, Air Assault, Pathfinder, etc. Driver's badges and weapons qual badges are worn by enlisted but not officers. However, the regulations are pretty clear. U unless directed to wear all of your badges and medals, the soldier can decide what to wear and not what to wear. Most people really don't care unless you wear something you didn't earn.

Response by Sgt Jerry Genesio made Apr 1 at 2019 12:45 AM

Sgt Jerry Genesio — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 00:45:48 -0400

I agree. Until someone shows you a reg proving otherwise, you should wear your enlisted driver's badge. You'll earn more respect from enlisted personnel who recognize the badge because it tells them you've been in their boots and understand them because you'll always be one of them at some level. It also says you're proud of your service in their ranks.

Response by CW4 Eric Clayton made Apr 1 at 2019 6:33 PM

CW4 Eric Clayton — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 18:33:13 -0400

Personally I think that if you earned anything as enlisted, you should be allowed to wear it. I would really like to be able to wear my Schutzschen Schneer.

Response by Sgt Jmeans M made Apr 1 at 2019 7:56 PM

Sgt Jmeans M — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 19:56:59 -0400

You earned it before the lobotomy so wear it with pride.

Response by SGT Peter Wilisch made Apr 1 at 2019 9:03 PM

SGT Peter Wilisch — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 21:03:52 -0400

I earned jump wings. I wear them.

Response by SGT Javier Silva made Apr 2 at 2019 2:55 PM

SGT Javier Silva — Tue, 02 Apr 2019 14:55:41 -0400

CPT Private RallyPoint Member - You can actually wear the item UNTIL you have earned an item that supersedes it, OR your command tells you otherwise.

Response by Cpl Geoff Smith made Apr 2 at 2019 3:58 PM

Cpl Geoff Smith — Tue, 02 Apr 2019 15:58:15 -0400

Should wear everything that was earned. I have seen officers wearing the Good Conduct Medal they earned while enlisted.

Response by CAPT Ed Burdick made Apr 2 at 2019 5:57 PM

CAPT Ed Burdick — Tue, 02 Apr 2019 17:57:04 -0400

Uniform Regulations 2019 stipulates

(5) When insignia has both gold and silver versions, enlisted personnel wear silver, officers wear gold, within the following rules:

(a) Enlisted personnel who qualify for insignia, and are subsequently advanced to officer status continue wearing the enlisted insignia until qualified for a corresponding officer insignia; then replace the enlisted insignia with the officer insignia.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2019 6:17 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 06:17:38 -0400

Unlike a marksmanship badge, driver's badges are permanent awards. Wear it if you like, you're entitled.

Response by SGT Evan Farley made Apr 3 at 2019 1:54 PM

SGT Evan Farley — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 13:54:58 -0400

If you earned it you can wear it. Lord knows officers aren't experts at everything. Anyone who's ever ran a range know this as truth.

Response by TSgt Francis Dane made Apr 4 at 2019 12:07 PM

TSgt Francis Dane — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 12:07:51 -0400

I think everyone should wear every damn thing that’s earned.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Apr 8 at 2019 10:18 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 10:18:48 -0400

LT Orcutt AR 670-1 Or DA-Pam 670-1 which ever they call it now is the rule.
Now Far be it for me to tell an Officer what to do but if you do NOT ware you Weapons Qual. When I see you in Dress uniform then the next time you want to discuss weapons don't be offended if I refuse to have the conversation. Same with Drivers badge or any other award, badge, (simply and thing you earned) I simply acknowledge that you skipped that portion of your training.

Response by PVT Cyrel Moore made Apr 9 at 2019 11:19 AM

PVT Cyrel Moore — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 11:19:33 -0400

They earned it they can wear it.

Response by SPC Christopher Perrien made Apr 10 at 2019 8:06 AM

SPC Christopher Perrien — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 08:06:31 -0400

If you got the paperwork for it, sure. A qualification badge is a qualification badge, and driver's badges do not expire . They are one of the rarer ones around , hope you got it for something real.

Response by TSgt Pat Burke made Apr 10 at 2019 8:45 AM

TSgt Pat Burke — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 08:45:12 -0400

What rank you were when you were authorized it doesn't matter. You were awarded it and as such wear it.

Response by COL Frank Hill made Apr 16 at 2019 9:52 AM

COL Frank Hill — Tue, 16 Apr 2019 09:52:41 -0400

Hard headed me on the weapons qual badge deal. Even after I had branch transferred from AR to QM so I could join DISCOM and eventually command an FSB (TxARNG), I made a point to proudly wear my expert rifle, expert pistol, and most importantly, marksman tank weapons badges on my dress uniforms just to let those folks my unit supported know that I wasn't always a CSS guy. No one ever gave me any sh_t about it and I would have not dealt with it well if they had.

Response by SPC Curtis Kennedy made Apr 26 at 2019 10:48 AM

SPC Curtis Kennedy — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 10:48:25 -0400

If you have earned it and have the documentation to prove it...wear it.

Response by CW3 James Ives made Apr 27 at 2019 1:29 AM

CW3 James Ives — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 01:29:23 -0400

You earned it, you wear it, simply stated.

Response by CPT James Joyner made Apr 27 at 2019 6:36 AM

CPT James Joyner — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 06:36:21 -0400

I earned a Driver's badge during my brief stint as a PFC in the Reserves. I never wore it on my uniform as a cadet, much less as an officer.

Response by CSM David Porterfield made Apr 28 at 2019 3:48 PM

CSM David Porterfield — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 15:48:29 -0400

I think officers should wear qual badges earned on a mixed enlisted and officer range. Keeps everyone honest and I should know if the guy next to me in a fight can shoot (or not). About the Drivers badge, I'm not sure what the rules are for an officer wearing a driver's but why not we can wear or not wear what we want (according to regs.) Dont ever be ashamed of something you earned.

Response by PO1 Peter DiStasio made Apr 28 at 2019 5:49 PM

PO1 Peter DiStasio — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 17:49:52 -0400

An enlisted badge is silver and an officer's badge is gold.
Per the uniform regulations the officer is allowed to wear his previously qualified enlisted badge until he re-qualifies as an officer.
Then the officer badge replaces his enlisted once.

Response by MAJ Norm Michaels made Apr 28 at 2019 8:39 PM

MAJ Norm Michaels — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 20:39:32 -0400

I wore my Army Gold Recruiter Badge always as an officer. I also wore my NCOPD ribbon, my good conduct ribbon.

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Apr 28 at 2019 10:54 PM

CPT Don Kemp — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 22:54:07 -0400

In ROTC Advanced Camp (1979), I suggested another cadet make some minor modifications to setting up his shelter half. He basically told me to butt out....No problem. The next day, I wore fatigues that had me Drill Sergeant Badge sewn on. He came up to me and apologized, saying I didn’t realize you were a Drill Sergeant. Either I was correct or I wasn’t.....but the DS Badge helped him accept my input.
I think this applies for prior service qualifications for most junior officers.

Response by MAJ Jim Hollingsworth made Apr 28 at 2019 10:57 PM

MAJ Jim Hollingsworth — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 22:57:02 -0400

Very few enlisted badges carry forward to the officer ranks. I can't think of any. Medals and ribbons are a different story. My first ARCOM, my NCO Professional Development Ribbon, and my Good Conduct Medal all carried forward. I'm sure there are others. Times and regulations change. Some others may be authorized later.

Response by COL Victor Hagan made Apr 28 at 2019 11:52 PM

COL Victor Hagan — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 23:52:46 -0400

The regulation does not prohibit the wear of those badges. However, it is Army tradition that officers don't wear them.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Apr 29 at 2019 10:45 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Mon, 29 Apr 2019 10:45:32 -0400

One of my Platoon Leaders who was enlisted, wore his NCO professional Development Ribbon on his Class A Uniform. So the answer to your question is yes they can.

Response by SFC David Ocasio made Apr 30 at 2019 1:03 PM

SFC David Ocasio — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 13:03:34 -0400

why not if it is oin his 201 file then hes authorized.

Response by SFC David Ocasio made Apr 30 at 2019 1:04 PM

SFC David Ocasio — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 13:04:51 -0400

Why not is it in his 201 FILE? then hes authorized to wear it. I have sen officers wear recruiter badge and Drill sergeant Pumpkins

Response by Capt Hastings Lamb III made Apr 30 at 2019 3:00 PM

Capt Hastings Lamb III — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 15:00:09 -0400

Wore my enlisted decorations and badges proudly. Weapons, aircrew, missile, and vietnam service, campaign, etc. were on the DD214 and every thing there (authorized) was pinned or placed accordingly on class A's.

Response by SrA Daniel Loving made Apr 30 at 2019 8:22 PM

SrA Daniel Loving — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 20:22:48 -0400

In my opinion if you Earned it then you should be allowed to wear it!

Response by SPC Rob Corlew made May 1 at 2019 8:04 PM

SPC Rob Corlew — Wed, 01 May 2019 20:04:24 -0400

The way I see it, yes. He or she earned it within their military career. So yes they should be able to wear it

Response by CW2 Cecil Copley made May 2 at 2019 2:16 PM

CW2 Cecil Copley — Thu, 02 May 2019 14:16:12 -0400

As a retiredArmy Personnel Warrant Officer, i can tell you that any awards, badges, and other qualifying skills that were listed on the Enlisted Personnel Record are required to be transferred automatically to the Officer Personnel Record without any further discussion.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made May 3 at 2019 8:11 AM

CPT Lawrence Cichelli — Fri, 03 May 2019 08:11:10 -0400

Yes you can! You can wear weapons qual badges, but most officers don't because they only qualified marksman. If you earned it, you can wear it. This also includes awards from other countries.

Response by Richard Wall made May 3 at 2019 11:55 AM

Richard Wall — Fri, 03 May 2019 11:55:37 -0400

I am a only a civilian supporter and never had the honor to serve (one of the great regrets of my life), but every freedom we have has been won and maintained by the brave members of our Armed Forces. For what it is worth, and unless regulations forbid or discourage it, I think any decoration or qualification badge earned, should be worn, whether received while enlisted or as a commissioned officer. I cannot imagine any civilian thinking otherwise.

Response by MAJ Richard Cheek made May 4 at 2019 2:33 PM

MAJ Richard Cheek — Sat, 04 May 2019 14:33:01 -0400

I definitely wore my drill sergeant badge as an officer.

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made May 5 at 2019 12:11 AM

SGT Juan Robledo — Sun, 05 May 2019 00:11:45 -0400

I know that when I was stationed in Korea 2 different times we were allowed to wear the imjon patch, once I got state side I needed to remove it, no big deal I just framed it along with my other patches now where and how I earned them

Response by CW3 Joseph Lawrence made May 5 at 2019 7:33 PM

CW3 Joseph Lawrence — Sun, 05 May 2019 19:33:58 -0400

I was at Carlisle Barracks getting my official photograph when I got into a discussion with a Colonel about my Weapons Qualification Badge. He said as a Warrant Officer I shouldn't be wearing it and told him, Sir, the regulation says all where is yours at. He left and went to the PX and came back with his qualification badge on to get his photo.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2019 8:28 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 May 2019 08:28:59 -0400

I've been in for about 18 years -- 3 years active and 2 overseas deployments in the Guard. And, I've always heard that "officers don't wear qualifications badges" but you can do what you want.... The counsel that I'd give you as an NCO is that wearing it may give you the opposite result. You put badges on to show that you have experience. But, in this case, it may peg you as inexperienced because the "custom" is not to wear it. Look at the official photos of the high ranking senior leaders and you'll see airborne, air assault, pathfinder but no skill qualification badges. They do, however, include their NCO professional development ribbon if they've earned it.

Response by LCDR Bruce Cooley made May 7 at 2019 12:43 PM

LCDR Bruce Cooley — Tue, 07 May 2019 12:43:45 -0400

Absolutely yes. Several reasons, but the foremost is that that person (like me) EARNED those qual's so therefore is entitled to wear them. Secondly, when that person is in command of other service personnel doing that or similar jobs....the junior personnel will know that their leader knows the job. Thirdly, when that new officer is put in a position of leadership not necessarily in their sphere of knowledge, it gives the junior personnel the comfort in the knowledge that they DO know how to get the job done and get qual'd based on previous experience. Lastly, it is always a good idea to let junior personnel know that you have been around and have been successful in what you have done....therefore building a base of good morale and unit spirit.

Response by Maj John D Benedict made May 12 at 2019 10:48 PM

Maj John D Benedict — Sun, 12 May 2019 22:48:25 -0400

I did. Most people didn't say a word, but a handful were curious what a couple of them were. Such as my state active duty ribbon...

Response by SPC Richard Kucken made May 18 at 2019 6:42 PM

SPC Richard Kucken — Sat, 18 May 2019 18:42:12 -0400

I feel that if you earned it, you should be allowed to show your pride in that or any accomplishment and wear it.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2019 1:56 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 May 2019 13:56:25 -0400

if you earned it, wear it, unless breaking a regulation.

Response by SFC Stephen Foster made May 29 at 2019 2:55 PM

SFC Stephen Foster — Wed, 29 May 2019 14:55:57 -0400

Who gives a shit. This is a non important issue.

Response by PO2 Virginia Sanders made May 29 at 2019 9:01 PM

PO2 Virginia Sanders — Wed, 29 May 2019 21:01:36 -0400

Poor attitude, shipmate. Don’t wear it then. When in doubt, don’t.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2019 9:19 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 May 2019 21:19:20 -0400

One of my 70B (CPT) wear's his Driver's Badge he earned when he was still enlisted, it's on his ORB, he wears it.

Response by LTC Lou MacDonald made May 30 at 2019 7:56 AM

LTC Lou MacDonald — Thu, 30 May 2019 07:56:58 -0400

If you earned it ...wear it

Response by PO1 James McCollum made May 30 at 2019 11:05 AM

PO1 James McCollum — Thu, 30 May 2019 11:05:55 -0400

Why not? They earned it, so why not allow them to continue to wear it. It's not like some of the
geedunk that people wear on a daily basis. I'm retired but if I could I would wear my Air & Surface Warrior devices. Why? Because I earned them!!

Response by PO1 James McCollum made May 30 at 2019 11:07 AM

PO1 James McCollum — Thu, 30 May 2019 11:07:50 -0400

Why not allow them to wear any device that was EARNED! It's not like some of the geedunk that folks are wearing on a daily basis. I'm retired but if I could I would wear my Air and Surface Warfare devices. Why? Because I earned them!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2019 12:04 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 May 2019 12:04:24 -0400

I would wear it. You earned it!

Response by PFC Bobby Smith made May 30 at 2019 8:46 PM

PFC Bobby Smith — Thu, 30 May 2019 20:46:39 -0400

look at it this way would wear a purple heart if you received it before you became an officer

Response by LTC Ken Connolly made May 30 at 2019 9:13 PM

LTC Ken Connolly — Thu, 30 May 2019 21:13:55 -0400

Sure. No harm in it.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2019 11:21 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 May 2019 23:21:13 -0400

Response by Sgt Dennis Franklin made May 31 at 2019 4:41 PM

Sgt Dennis Franklin — Fri, 31 May 2019 16:41:35 -0400

Wear em if you got em.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Jun 1 at 2019 3:24 PM

SGT Joseph Alanzo — Sat, 01 Jun 2019 15:24:07 -0400

why not

Response by COL Paul Hernandez made Jun 2 at 2019 2:36 PM

COL Paul Hernandez — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 14:36:53 -0400

Much like the Boy Scouts, some people enjoy collecting badges for their I love me wall. Maybe, the Drivers Badge was significant event. I know many Soldiers that survived the Samaran Bypass in Iraq and received other safety awards along with a CAB. I respect all badges earned fair and square instead of the PX soldiers and glory hounds.

Response by MSG GregoryT Majewski made Jun 2 at 2019 9:57 PM

MSG GregoryT Majewski — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 21:57:33 -0400

No matter how and when the badge is awarded, it is the officers call if they want to wear the the award.

Response by SSG Steven Faulkner made Jun 2 at 2019 10:44 PM

SSG Steven Faulkner — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 22:44:13 -0400

if you earned it wear it!

Response by PO2 James Oss made Jun 2 at 2019 10:48 PM

PO2 James Oss — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 22:48:04 -0400

I'm against it. Civilian police are that, civilian not military. And off the black Waffen SS garb. Police need to be wearing a uniform that sets them apart from the military. Even sheriffs department with their khaki and brown smacks of the SA brownshirts. Just wear blue with grey slacks and they don't need freaking jack boots on routine patrol. 'Police officers' are to be called that, not 'Cops' which is actually derogatory in origin. APC and IED proof armored vehicles? Play me out some slack on that.,
Jim in Western Kansas

Response by SGM Major Stroupe made Jun 3 at 2019 6:45 AM

SGM Major Stroupe — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 06:45:50 -0400

You earned it, feel free to wear it.

Response by CPT Olen Ridling made Jun 3 at 2019 3:03 PM

CPT Olen Ridling — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 15:03:06 -0400

HELL YES. If you earned it wear with pride. I spent 7+ years enlisted and wore everything (except Hash's) that I earned as an enlisted/NCO soldier.

Response by CPT Keith Whitter made Jun 3 at 2019 4:13 PM

CPT Keith Whitter — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 16:13:58 -0400

If you earned the award wear it proudly!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2019 6:08 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 18:08:32 -0400

Just like officers get a Bronze Star when my lower enlisted Bronze Stars were denied because of their rank. My 1st Sgt and Commander denied all my request, and all were for bravery in combat ! I even saw a Major get a Silver Star for the great job he did running our TOC ops. I am not sure on the drivers badge but it sounds unconcerning in the big picture. I hope you can wear it, because you earned it. Just venting about a sore topic.

Response by CPO David Felt made Jun 3 at 2019 9:01 PM

CPO David Felt — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 21:01:52 -0400

If he earned it, yes. If they so choose. Don't know why they would though unless its full dress.

Response by MSgt Robert Brady made Jun 4 at 2019 7:25 PM

MSgt Robert Brady — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 19:25:33 -0400

If he or she earned it, then they should wear it. That is like saying if I earned the Medal of Honor while enlisted and then became a officer then I can not wear it. It is all part of your Military Service.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2019 5:31 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Jun 2019 05:31:53 -0400

Why not wear it if you earned it and was awarded the badge. I earned a Drivers Badge but wasn't awarded one. Same with a few other awards. Be proud of your service and what you've earned no matter if you are an Officer or Enlisted.

Response by PO1 John Flores made Jun 5 at 2019 4:41 PM

PO1 John Flores — Wed, 05 Jun 2019 16:41:24 -0400

Aren’t you supposed to?

Response by SFC John Wright made Jun 5 at 2019 9:25 PM

SFC John Wright — Wed, 05 Jun 2019 21:25:32 -0400

Officers and E-7 and above do not wear 'bolo' badges of any type. An unwritten rule.

Response by MAJ John Moran made Jun 6 at 2019 9:40 AM

MAJ John Moran — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:40:52 -0400

1. There is no reg that prohibits an officer from wearing a driver/mechanic badge that was earned.

2. I don’t see anything wrong with an officer wearing a legitimately earned “DMB”.

3. I hate, HATE this notion that officers don’t wear weapon qual badges. I am convinced that the “expected to be an expert” thing is BS. Earn expert then. If you can’t earn expert then wear what you’ve earned and let the “bolo” shame be what motivates you to practice your marksmanship.

Response by Capt Bill Spickerman made Jun 6 at 2019 9:53 AM

Capt Bill Spickerman — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:53:49 -0400

When I crossed over from airforce Msgt Aircraft Weapons, to 2nd LT Logistics Office

Response by LCpl David Snider made Jun 6 at 2019 12:14 PM

LCpl David Snider — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 12:14:27 -0400

I'm not familiar with a Drivers badge, maybe a typo, and meant Divers badge, either way if you earned it ..wear it proudly

Response by SgtMaj Charles Spidell made Jun 6 at 2019 4:26 PM

SgtMaj Charles Spidell — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 16:26:05 -0400

My question is why would a badge be awarded for driving a truck, tank, or other vehicle?

Response by SGM Ray Jones made Jun 6 at 2019 8:33 PM

SGM Ray Jones — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 20:33:58 -0400

No. When you become an officer, your driving days are over. Now you qualify for your driver, personally.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2019 2:19 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Jun 2019 14:19:47 -0400

Why are you asking? Look it up in 670-1. All soldiers should know how that reg applies to them

Response by SPC Cesar Freytes made Jun 8 at 2019 9:48 PM

SPC Cesar Freytes — Sat, 08 Jun 2019 21:48:49 -0400

The answer is so simple, do what Army regulations say lead by example not by how you feel that day. Lt. Brooks said it best read his shit. Arrogance does no good. As a leader if you are going to enforce AR then abide by them. Jesus not a complex issue until officers get involved.(cry) but I want to do what I want, my question is who is policing the officer corp.

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Jun 9 at 2019 11:48 AM

LCpl Cody Collins — Sun, 09 Jun 2019 11:48:36 -0400

Whatever you earn while serving your country should be on display in dress uniform.

Response by Capt Gilbert Arguello made Jun 9 at 2019 11:30 PM

Capt Gilbert Arguello — Sun, 09 Jun 2019 23:30:37 -0400

If you rate it, wear it. Unless there is a reg. that prohibits wearing it as an officer.

Response by CPT William Hoh made Jun 13 at 2019 7:55 PM

CPT William Hoh — Thu, 13 Jun 2019 19:55:27 -0400

You earned the badge. You. It's your uniform. I think you have every right to wear it.

Response by SSG Red Hoffman made Jun 27 at 2019 7:29 AM

SSG Red Hoffman — Thu, 27 Jun 2019 07:29:00 -0400

CPT Private RallyPoint Member referring to earned awards as ‘enlisted shit’ shows a lack of professionalism. As an officer, you should be setting an example for lower enlisted and learning from your NCOs. Drivers badge? Who cares...however...the way you speak will earn you respect far more than the trinkets on your chest.

Response by CW2 Jason Carmichael made Jun 28 at 2019 11:21 AM

CW2 Jason Carmichael — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 11:21:43 -0400

I wore mine, my qualification badges, yep pistol and rifle, and even my good conduct ribbon.

Every time I heard Officers don't wear those, I just let them speak for themselves. I had a Col that wore his also. Enlisted, The Academy, Officer.

Response by COL Larry Crockett made Jun 28 at 2019 11:08 PM

COL Larry Crockett — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 23:08:38 -0400

If you earned it you can wear it - officer or enlisted. I was prior enlisted before getting my commission. Initially I wore everything - partly to show those in my unit that I had been around the block and not just someone out ROTC or West Point. Later in my career I went to the minimallist theory and just wore the ones that really meant something to me - SF Tab, jump wings and combat patch. Only exception was the dress/mess blues - then I wore it all.

Response by 2LT Evan Arguello made Jun 29 at 2019 12:08 PM

2LT Evan Arguello — Sat, 29 Jun 2019 12:08:22 -0400

I earned my jump wings as an E2. I wore them when I was an O1.
I believe the Navy and Coast Guard have gold (officer) and silver (enlisted) badges for surface warfare, submarines, and cutterman because some requirements are slightly different. An officer can wear his silver until he upgrades to the gold, but can't wear both at the same time.
A Navy SEAL badge, on the other hand, is the same for all.

Response by SPC Larry Weigel Jr. made Jun 29 at 2019 2:07 PM

SPC Larry Weigel Jr. — Sat, 29 Jun 2019 14:07:03 -0400

If anyone earns a badge, medal, or citation that can be worn on a uniform then they should display that, especially if an enlisted person makes the leap to officer. It’s not about bragging, it’s about achieving.

Response by TSgt William Childress made Jun 29 at 2019 9:44 PM

TSgt William Childress — Sat, 29 Jun 2019 21:44:30 -0400

If it was earned, then YES - it should be WORN!

Response by TSgt William Childress made Jun 29 at 2019 9:45 PM

TSgt William Childress — Sat, 29 Jun 2019 21:45:24 -0400

If it was EARNED, then YES - it should be WORN!

Response by PVT Allen Meissner made Jun 30 at 2019 5:28 PM

PVT Allen Meissner — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 17:28:33 -0400

One of my Company Commanders still wore his Drill Sergeant badge despite being a Captain when I knew him !

Response by Cpl John Payne made Jun 30 at 2019 6:23 PM

Cpl John Payne — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 18:23:25 -0400

HEW EARNED IT HE SHOULD WEAR IT

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Jun 30 at 2019 7:10 PM

SFC Melvin Brandenburg — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 19:10:44 -0400

I don't think so.

Response by SFC Steven Schafer made Jun 30 at 2019 11:58 PM

SFC Steven Schafer — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 23:58:36 -0400

Sir,I had a good friend of mine that went through OCS and graduated. He was enlisted, Ranger,campaigned in Vietnam twice,decorated for bravery,wounded in combat and awarded Bronze Stars twice. He wore every one of those awards on his Officers jacket every day until his retirement as an LTC in Hawaii.His take on that was " I earned them and they won't come off." Hope that helps.

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Jul 1 at 2019 12:09 AM

SFC Melvin Brandenburg — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 00:09:39 -0400

I wouldn't if it were me since I wouldn't wear weapons badges.

Response by Cpl James Krantz made Jul 1 at 2019 9:01 AM

Cpl James Krantz — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 09:01:01 -0400

I'm now 80 years old. Took the oath of enlistment Dec/1958. Served two weeks short of Four in the Corps. Every enlisted Marine I ever met had a step higher respect for an officer who had an enlisted ribbon, like a Good Conduct ribbon. I had an OIC at Avionics for H&MS-11 at Atsugi, Jpn. who was a Mustang Officer. Excellent officer. If you earned it, it is yours. Display it properly.

Response by SGT Craig Johnson made Jul 1 at 2019 11:58 AM

SGT Craig Johnson — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 11:58:13 -0400

It was earned, period.

Response by MAJ David Levett made Jul 1 at 2019 11:57 PM

MAJ David Levett — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 23:57:34 -0400

What is a Drivers Badge ? Did you drive the general around post?

Response by SGT William Nixson made Jul 3 at 2019 6:15 PM

SGT William Nixson — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 18:15:42 -0400

If you are posted to a transportation unit, then the Drivers Badge might mean something to the troops, saying "been there, done that". Judging from other responses, maybe the only one appreciating the badge would be you. I have my "wheels" and am proud of them!

Response by CMSgt Palmer Luro made Jul 3 at 2019 9:42 PM

CMSgt Palmer Luro — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 21:42:52 -0400

Optional.

Response by Martha Anne Woolum made Jul 3 at 2019 10:16 PM

Martha Anne Woolum — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 22:16:25 -0400

Why not? Exactly it shows, they have earned a merit.

Response by Martha Anne Woolum made Jul 3 at 2019 10:17 PM

Martha Anne Woolum — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 22:17:02 -0400

Hold on, the fireworks are started. Ill be back.

Response by SSgt Lawrence Brown made Jul 4 at 2019 2:52 AM

SSgt Lawrence Brown — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 02:52:39 -0400

Why not he earn it

Response by SGT Rosi Teresi made Jul 4 at 2019 7:48 AM

SGT Rosi Teresi — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 07:48:41 -0400

He earned it, didn't he? Why wouldn't he wear it?

Response by LCpl Roland Hayes made Jul 4 at 2019 9:29 AM

LCpl Roland Hayes — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 09:29:23 -0400

A Driver’s Badge? You get a badge for driving?

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 4 at 2019 1:45 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 13:45:28 -0400

Only if they want to be ridiculed.

Response by SGT Robert Martin made Jul 4 at 2019 2:51 PM

SGT Robert Martin — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 14:51:21 -0400

Joking aside I guess I'm going to show my age. I was told to wear every scare me badge earned. Simply because it would encourage younger soldiers to go the extra mile to earn their own badges, patches, ect. In the end the army would benefit from having better trained, and motivated soldiers. I don't know if I buy into that, but I say if you earned it put it on. Own every single award. Marksman with your m4? Put it on if someone runs their mouth let that be your motivation to improve. No one becomes great by focusing on what they have already mastered. You become the best by knowing your weakness, and mastering it.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 4 at 2019 4:06 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 16:06:19 -0400

I only wore Expert Weapons Badge as an Infantry AIT Company Commander.

Response by LTC Al Kittredge made Jul 5 at 2019 6:36 PM

LTC Al Kittredge — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 18:36:21 -0400

And why not? I'm not familiar with the drivers badge but had a military driver's license as an EM and again as an officer. How about jump wings, ranger tabs, or SF. If they were earned during EM time shouldn't they count? Seems like someone making a mountain out of a mole hill - maybe someone with too much time on their hands.

Response by CWO2 M J made Jul 6 at 2019 8:32 PM

CWO2 M J — Sat, 06 Jul 2019 20:32:04 -0400

So I don't know the army regulation, but the Marines uniform manual is MCO 1020.34H. I think the army equivalent is AR 670-1 but I could be mistaken. To give a short answer, yes you can wear all your enlisted insignia and badges with the exception of any that are specific to the enlisted ranks. So for instance, I was allowed to wear my enlisted shooting badges and all awards earned, but you can't wear enlisted buckles, service stripes, etc. Check the army reg though, you guys wear all kinds of shit we don't.

Response by SSgt Gerald Davis Jr made Jul 7 at 2019 8:50 PM

SSgt Gerald Davis Jr — Sun, 07 Jul 2019 20:50:38 -0400

I like seeing Officers that show they were prior enlisted.

Response by TSgt Cory Harrington made Jul 8 at 2019 9:53 AM

TSgt Cory Harrington — Mon, 08 Jul 2019 09:53:46 -0400

a skilled learned is a skill earned...regardless of rank

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2019 4:36 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Jul 2019 16:36:44 -0400

Sir if you were lower enlisted prior to being an officer the only ones who will EVER look down on you are officers who were never lower enlisted.

Response by LTC Charles Lauderdale made Jul 13 at 2019 1:30 AM

LTC Charles Lauderdale — Sat, 13 Jul 2019 01:30:03 -0400

I left active duty in 1986. I wore all my badges and medals earned while enlisted along with those earned after I was commissioned. The only exception I can think of is there is a different badge issued for officers and enlisted for the same activity (i.e. the naval special warfare badge is gold for officers and silver for enlisted).

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2019 1:32 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Jul 2019 13:32:29 -0400

AR 600-8-22 (25 JUN 2015), Para. 8-32 specifies the requirements for the Driver and Mechanic Badge. It is not rank dependent and in fact can be awarded to DA civilians and foreign military personnel. There is no requirement that once earned you have to continue to do the activities that earned you the badge in the first place. You earned it. Wear it proudly.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2019 2:21 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Jul 2019 14:21:52 -0400

The comments about Army tradition being that Officers do not wear awards from Enlisted service is a historical relic from the days when Officers effectively bought (yes, paid for) their Commissions in the state militias, which made up the predominant fighting force of the Nation prior to WWI. Many units during the Civil War were effectively raised, paid for, armed and commanded by wealthy private individuals. During the Spanish American War, recall Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders, which were a NY Militia, not regular Army. Not until 1916 did Federal law provide for state militias to be involuntarily called into active Federal service. Only then were Officers and Enlisted state militia personnel required to swear allegiance to both the state and U.S. That is also when the Army created slots for the Militia Bureau (what we now call the National Guard) and started picking up the tab for the cost of the organized state militias (now renamed the National Guard). A large number of National Guard troops were employed in WWI (the first major combat deployment of National Guard outside the US). After WWI, the idea of an Enlisted person becoming an Officer continued to be an anomaly. Until WWII, the Army (and other branches) remained highly class-stratified. OCS didn't even exist until just prior to WWII. Only due to the GI Bill and the large number of WWII veterans availing themselves of the opportunity to attend college (and promote to Officers through OCS) has there been any change in the class stratification of the military. Even now, discrimination exists in favor of Service Academy graduates - another historical artifact from the days when Officers in the regular (Volunteer) Army (almost entirely comprised of Service Academy graduates) viewed Officers from the state militias with suspicion as to their competence. Personally and professionally, what matters is the knowledge, experience, intelligence, creativity, and attitude of Officers. The more they bring to the table, the better Officers they will be. If that includes understanding what their Enlisted personnel do, then more power to them. They won't ask for their Soldiers to do what they know cannot be done - and won't put up with excuses for why something isn't being done that can be done.

Response by SCPO Gene Littig made Jul 28 at 2019 12:52 PM

SCPO Gene Littig — Sun, 28 Jul 2019 12:52:05 -0400

that opinion is shared with 99% for senior enlisted I would guess.

Response by LTC Stephen Franke made Aug 5 at 2019 12:31 AM

LTC Stephen Franke — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 00:31:25 -0400

Greetings to all in this thread.

Rather than depending, for whatever expected benefit or reason, on wear and display on a uniform of a Driver's Badge earned when in prior enlisted status, may I posit that it is noticeably more-effective and more-credible that a prior-enlisted-service (aka "mustang" in 'Old Army-speak") "newbie" officer just wear the service ribbon for award of the Good Conduct Medal (GCM), which award -- along with other and more-widely-recognized qual badges, i.e. CIB, EIB. CMB, Parachutist Badge, etc. -- which most all enlisted Soldiers and particularly battle-experienced NCOs, recognize and appreciate (been there, done that as a newbie 2LT).

** Today is Sunday, 4 August 2019.

Regards to all.

Sincerely,

Stephen H. Franke
LTC, US Army Retired
San Pedro (Los Angeles Waterfront Area), California

Response by LTC Erik Spike Thiesmeyer, Sr. made Aug 12 at 2019 10:46 AM

LTC Erik Spike Thiesmeyer, Sr. — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 10:46:21 -0400

I was enlisted for three years. I earned expert rifle, grenade and aircrew wings, plus overseas service, good conduct, and Army achievement. Under this logic, I would not wear any of them when I was commissioned. Didn’t happen. I wore them all. Later, I stopped wearing expert rifle and grenade as I only qualified with a pistol. And I stopped wearing aircrew wings when I got my aviator wings. Don’t listen to anyone who tells you this, it’s BS.

Response by PO3 Kevin DeLong made Aug 30 at 2019 4:29 PM

PO3 Kevin DeLong — Fri, 30 Aug 2019 16:29:02 -0400

Anything earned while enlisted can be worn when mustang to officer status. Officers are supposed to be experts in rifle and pistol and don't wear the badges but if you mustang its perfectly legal to wear them.

Response by PO1 Todd B. made Sep 2 at 2019 12:23 AM

PO1 Todd B. — Mon, 02 Sep 2019 00:23:04 -0400

You should wear any ribbon/medal or insignia earned as a member of the US Armed Forces. That does not include unit patches or slap on badges etc etc. But anything that is considered an awarded ribbon or medal, regardless of rank, should be on the uniform.

If that drivers badge is not a ribbon, medal or specific insignia like pilots wings, SEAL insignia etc, then no it is not supposed to be worn unless relevant to the current command and duty.. It would be like those of us who worked for a while as a military police officer, continuing to wear a military police badge even after TDY or regular duty resumed later on.. Which I had happen.. I spent a year on special duty as a Military Police officer, academy trained etc.. But when that finished and I went back to my rating duties, that badge was not something I could keep wearing even though I earned it and was issued it.

Response by PO3 Adam Stoflet made Sep 26 at 2019 7:53 PM

PO3 Adam Stoflet — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 19:53:26 -0400

If my memory hasn’t failed me I saw something similar happen in the Navy all the time with the Esws (Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist) and the Officer variant. Often times you would see them wear both versions as an acknowledgement of them being former enlisted. In the Navy we also had people wear an Aviation variant in conjunction with the ESWS pin that could only be earned on a flight capable ship such as an Aircraft carrier even though they were on a destroyer. However with the ESWS pin there was a reaffirmation/Requalification process from ship to ship but also for ship specific requirements. i.e. Destroyer vs Aircraft Carrier vs Frigate vs Cruiser all requiring their own specific knowledge.

In closing if you earned it and maintain the requirements to wear it. Who can really stop you from wearing it?

Response by CWO3 Dave Alcantara made Sep 29 at 2019 8:55 PM

CWO3 Dave Alcantara — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 20:55:48 -0400

When I ascended to the rank of CWO2, I retained my enlisted Cutterman’s device. This would be the USCG equivalent of the Navy’s Surface Warfare device. I later earned the Officers version. At that point it was preference.

The only thing I “bent” the refs on, was I wore my Cuttermans Pin above my ribbons, because I felt it senior to my Marine Safety Device, which I was supposed to where above the ribbons. Technically against the refs, but most of the CWO’s who came from the fleet did so.

Response by CAPT Patrick Mulcahy made Oct 7 at 2019 1:29 AM

CAPT Patrick Mulcahy — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 01:29:31 -0400

In the Navy you can and should as it is authorized.

Response by SMSgt Jeff Kyle made Oct 7 at 2019 1:42 PM

SMSgt Jeff Kyle — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 13:42:17 -0400

First off, my time of service was with the Marine Corps and Air Force. That being said, I worked with several officers who were prior service enlisted. Every one of them wore some type of badge based on their AFSC (MOS) and awarded at specific points in their career. The AFI’s (Regs) specifically discuss the wear of badges. I wear my Marine Corps Aircrew Wings from my time in the Corps and a Air Force Master Maintenance & Munition badge for my service in the Air Force. You’d be hard pressed if anyone wanted to take them away. AFI 36-2903 is the reg that covers the subject. Bottom line: you earn it, you keep wearing it.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Oct 11 at 2019 12:14 AM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 00:14:09 -0400

My thoughts on this subject are this. You were enlisted when you qualified for any badge you wear. You became and officer, you wear whatever you qualified for to show other officers you aren't some pansy assed newbie. Even though your career field/MOS has changed, you are qualified from another. I knew two former CCT enlisted men who went Boot Strap officers. They directed aircraft into landings, take offs and air strikes. They became radar intercept officers. Doing wht they did as enlisted men only as officers. They started as fully qualified officers in radar interception, not new from school wannabies. It shocked the hell outta me, seeing them as officers, when I knew them as enlisted CCT members.

Response by Lt Col Gary Odle made Oct 17 at 2019 11:49 PM

Lt Col Gary Odle — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 23:49:07 -0400

I had a friend that was a Chaplain but he had been a C-130 Loadmaster before getting ordained and entering the Chaplaincy. He continued to wear his enlisted aircrew wings and had his Chaplain's cross above them. He was very proud of the time he spent as a Loadmaster and the wings help communicate to everybody else what his background was.

I know nothing about a Driver's badge (maybe the asker meant Diver's badge, maybe) but I would think that the same principle would apply.

Response by Sgt Dan Catlin made Nov 15 at 2019 8:39 PM

Sgt Dan Catlin — Fri, 15 Nov 2019 20:39:27 -0500

I was in the Corps, and we didn't hang a lot of crap on our uniforms. But if you transferred over from say the Army, you wore everything you earned there. The only thing I can think of a mustanger might wear from his enlisted days was a GCM. Again, they earned it, they continued to wear it.

Response by SGT Kenneth Partyka made Nov 15 at 2019 8:45 PM

SGT Kenneth Partyka — Fri, 15 Nov 2019 20:45:54 -0500

LT, personally I think, if you earned it you should wear it. Officers wearing awards earned while enlisted show their troops that they have walked in the enlisted man's shoes. When I was in, we (the enlisted ranks) always had more respect for a butter bar with some "candy" than the ROTC grad. ROTC grads were eaten alive by the NCO's and WO's.

Response by LTC Ken Tipton made Nov 19 at 2019 6:15 PM

LTC Ken Tipton — Tue, 19 Nov 2019 18:15:01 -0500

Other than his previous rank, an Officer should be able to wear any awards and decorations he/she earned while enlisted. If the person had won a Silver Star he/she would wear it as an Officer.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2019 8:39 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Nov 2019 08:39:19 -0500

If its earned, then why wouldnt I say he shouldn’t?

Response by SGT Charles Bartell made Dec 2 at 2019 12:04 AM

SGT Charles Bartell — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 00:04:29 -0500

If it is earned what is the problem ?
That badge is not just handed out.
The RANGER and Special Forces Tabs are skill tabs and badges
If someone as a problem with, Maybe they should try earning them for themselves.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Dec 2 at 2019 1:58 PM

SPC Brian Stephens — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 13:58:40 -0500

This should be up to the officer. I would think the officer corps would be improved including experienced leaders in their ranks.

Response by CPT John Green made Dec 5 at 2019 10:02 AM

CPT John Green — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 10:02:55 -0500

After I was commissioned I stopped wearing marksmanship badges. Probably should of received a driver's badge but the one time I was put in for it as an O (I didn't even know my 1SG put my name on the list) my battalion commander freaked out over it. As a volunteer in the MD Defense Force some Os wear marksmanship badges but very few are prior service.

Response by SFC Craig Vaughn made Dec 13 at 2019 10:36 AM

SFC Craig Vaughn — Fri, 13 Dec 2019 10:36:17 -0500

By Tradition, Officers don't wear these types of badges. Some Officers believe that wearing these badges shows that you are tying to make other officers look bad. Think about the appearance of what you are doing before you do it. Officers thrive on appearance and political savvy rather than skills and competence as NCO's must do. This is not to say Officers don't have skills and competence, just that it is not seen as the most important skills for advancement. By the way, this is just my opinion and not based on any kind of research so take it with a grain of salt.

Response by SPC John Coleman made Dec 15 at 2019 9:49 PM

SPC John Coleman — Sun, 15 Dec 2019 21:49:32 -0500

Any awards that is on your dd214 you are allowed to wear them.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2019 12:03 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Dec 2019 00:03:38 -0500

As a junior enlisted soldier to see a badge on another soldier makes me 1) interested in their experience due to me wanting to see if it's something I want to experience myself and 2) makes me feel more secure in that person's soldiering ability. An officer who not only wheres them but had achieved them as an enlisted soldier give me promise of a bright future for myself and whatever part of my unit he/she is in charge of.

Response by SGT Ivory Brown made Dec 18 at 2019 10:08 AM

SGT Ivory Brown — Wed, 18 Dec 2019 10:08:43 -0500

When I was enlisted I held prior non commission to commission in a higher regard. Of course always being professional and respectfully either way but you know the drill after they leave the area do it the way that works keeping within the that officers intent. But as far wearing badges etc I say go for it, you earned it and you should be proud. Kinda puts a boot up the warriors a** by saying I did it, what's your problem. Anyone who been in knows how specify the pain of a simple task of getting a military license can be for some. And how only a select few do and are use over and over again to drive. Getting that driver badge can be gotten very quickly. Lol

Response by George Avery made Dec 27 at 2019 1:53 PM

George Avery — Fri, 27 Dec 2019 13:53:11 -0500

Oh, Gawd.

My Dad retired from the Air Force, but did prior service a LONG time ago with the 82d, 10 SFG(A) (in the Sage/Thorne days), and 5th SFG. If he had worn all his occupational and qualification badges, he would have not needed body Army - Master Parachutists, Rigger, Freefall parachutists, pretty much every weapon qual badge(he went through the q-course as a light weapons specialist), Special Forces, Glider, Jumpmaster, Freefall Jumpmaster, SERE, Pathfinder, AF Maintenance and Munitions, CIB, Greek and Jordanian jump wings, etc. I think the only one I ever saw him wear was the Master Parachutist wings.

I suppose if you haven't picked up many of the tougher ones.....

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Jan 8 at 2020 11:43 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Wed, 08 Jan 2020 23:43:12 -0500

I never wore anything but Marksmanship awards and anything else that was related to Infantry.

Response by CPT Edward M. made Jan 12 at 2020 1:40 AM

CPT Edward M. — Sun, 12 Jan 2020 01:40:39 -0500

Not to many mustangs around as one I say hell yes wear it

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2020 12:27 AM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Mar 2020 00:27:29 -0400

The answer is no, the drivers badge is worthless. Much like the GAFB.

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Jan 22 at 2021 1:50 PM

SFC Melvin Brandenburg — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 13:50:10 -0500

I got a driver's badge for driving 5,000 miles in a combat zone without an accident. I always assumed you were supposed to drive responsibly. I never understood if it was a big deal or not. I wear it, but I don't think I would if I were an officer.

Response by SPC Brian Jones made May 4 at 2021 9:11 AM

SPC Brian Jones — Tue, 04 May 2021 09:11:36 -0400

Why would it matter, if they earned it while in the military it is part of their history of service? Would be like saying if a lower enlisted lost a limb, went on to become an officer that they not wear the ribbon for the purple heart they received. I couldn't count the number of non-coms (officer and NCO's) that flew in from the states to our unit, in the gulf, so they had a patch on their right.

Response by PO1 Michael Brouty made Jul 5 at 2021 5:38 PM

PO1 Michael Brouty — Mon, 05 Jul 2021 17:38:06 -0400

Of course he earned it..