Skip to content 
The Ultimate Guide to U.S. Military Pins and Ribbons: Understanding the Meaning Behind Military Pins
If you have ever seen a military uniform, you may have noticed a variety of pins and ribbons adorning it. These military pins and ribbons represent the military service, accomplishments, and achievements in the armed forces. However, it can be challenging to understand the meaning behind these pins and ribbons without proper guidance. In this article, we will dig into the meaning behind wide selection of military lapel pin you may find on a military uniform.
Military lapel pin, also called badges or insignia, are symbols of recognition that demonstrate a military veterans’ rank, skills, and achievements. These pins and badges have been a part of military uniforms for centuries, and their design has evolved over time. pins are usually worn on the left side of the uniform, above the heart, and they represent a service member’s dedication and commitment to the military.
Each military branch has its own set of pins and ribbons, and their design and meaning may vary. However, some pins and ribbons are common across all branches of the military.
Common Types of Military Lapel Pins and Ribbons
We produce a large selection of arm lapel pins to meet your needs. Let’s see the top 9 military service pins.
1. The Purple Heart Pin
The Purple Heart Pin is one of the most recognized military pins. It is awarded to service members who are wounded or killed in action. The pin features a purple heart with a gold border, suspended from a white and purple ribbon.
2. The Combat Action Badge
The Combat Action Badge is awarded to soldiers who have engaged in direct combat with the enemy. The badges carry a bayonet and grenade surrounded by a wreath.
3. The Parachutist Badge
The Parachutist Badge, also known as “jump wings,” is awarded to soldiers who have completed parachute training. The badge features an open parachute with wings.
4. The Army Service Ribbon
The Army Service Ribbon is awarded to soldiers who have completed basic training and have been on active duty for at least six months. The ribbon features vertical stripes of green, white, and red.
5. The National Defense Service Medal
The National Defense Service Medal is awarded to service members who have served during times of national emergency or war. The medal features a blue, white, and red ribbon with a bronze star in the center.
6. The Expert Infantryman Badge
The Expert Infantryman Badge is awarded to soldiers who have demonstrated exceptional skill in infantry tactics. The badge features a rifle surrounded by a wreath.
7. The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award is awarded to units that have demonstrated outstanding achievement or service. The ribbon features a blue stripe surrounded by two white stripes and a red stripe in the center.
8. The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal is awarded to service members who have demonstrated exceptional achievement or service. The medal features a blue, white, and red ribbon with a bronze star in the center.
9. The Coast Guard Achievement Medal
The Coast Guard Achievement Medal is awarded to service members who have demonstrated exceptional achievement or service. The medal features a blue, white, and red ribbon with a silver star in the center.
Military Lapel Pin Placement
Are you attending a black or white-tie event and wondering how to properly wear your military lapel pins and medals? Look no further, as we have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you wear your perfect pin with pride and honor.
Lapel pins are typically worn on the left lapel or left breast pocket of a formal jacket or coat.
When wearing a military lapel pin, there are several guidelines to follow. These guidelines ensure that you wear your pins with respect and honor, while adhering to military protocol.
Determine the Occasion
The first step in wearing your military lapel pin is to determine the occasion. Depending on the event, different rules may apply. For black or white-tie events, if the lapel is wide enough, wear the miniature medals on the left lapel, or in the case of a shawl lapel on a tuxedo, wear the miniature medals over the left breast pocket.
Placement of Lapel Pin
Once you have determined the occasion, it is time to place your lapel pin. To place your lapel pin, thread the needle of your pin through your lapel’s buttonhole. The face of the pin should be sticking out of the hole facing forward, while the needle remains on the backside. Take care not to stick yourself while the backing of the pin is off.
Placement of Medals
If you are wearing medals, they should be mounted on a metal holding bar or bar brooch, and that bar is attached to the lapel. The center of the holding bar should be parallel to the ground. It is important to note that only official medals should be worn, and they should be worn on the left side using a metal bar.
Other Considerations
When wearing your military lapel pins and medals, it is important to take into consideration other factors such as the type of jacket or coat you are wearing, the color of your outfit, and the size of your pins and medals. When wearing a formal jacket or coat, ensure that the lapel is wide enough to accommodate your pins and medals. Additionally, the size of your pins and medals should be appropriate for the occasion and the type of jacket or coat you are wearing.
Conclusion
Wearing your military lapel pins and medals is a symbol of your service and achievement, and it is important to wear them with pride and honor. By following these guidelines for lapel pin placement, you can ensure that you wear your pins and medals with respect and in adherence to military protocol.
