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The original, World War II–model CIB was a silver and enamel badge, consisting of a 3-inch-wide (76mm) rectangular bar with an infantry-blue field upon which is superimposed a Springfield Arsenal Musket, Model 1795. The composite device is superimposed to an elliptic oak-leaf wreath, symbolizing steadfast character, strength, and loyalty. During World War II, there existed metallic, composite models of the CIB composed of a separate EIB rectangle-badge and oak-leaf wreath that then was pinned to the blouse, as a Combat Infantryman Badge. Later, a matte-black subdued metal badge was created for wearing on the fatigues in the field. Since World War II, the CIB has been made in cloth (colored and subdued) for wear, like the matte-metal model, on the fatigue field uniform, and, a miniature (1+1⁄4inches [32mm] long) lacquered-metal CIB model is available for wearing on the mess dress uniform and civilian clothes.
On 8 February 1952, the Army approved the addition of stars to the CIB indicating the soldier's having fought in more than one war. The first was the second-award CIB recognizingKorean Warcombat operations; in that time, the U.S. Army'sInstitute of Heraldryalso had created eighth-award CIB designs. The second- through fourth-award CIB awards were indicated with silver five-point stars, one to three stars centered, at badge's top, between the tips of the oak-leaf wreath; the fifth- through eighth-awards of the CIB were indicated with gold stars. However, Army Regulation 600-8-22 (Military Awards) only authorizes up to three awards of the CIB. There are four periods for which an award of the badge can be made:
Currently, the Combat Infantryman Badge is worn1⁄4inch (6.4mm) above the service ribbons above the left-breast pocket of the Class-A uniform coat and of the other uniforms with which the CIB is authorized. As of June 2011, the badge and its sew-on equivalent may be worn on the Army Combat Uniform (ACU).[13]
To be eligible for the Master Parachutist Badge, a person must have been rated excellent in character and efficiency and have met the following requirements:
The 25 combat equipment jumps necessary to qualify for the Master Parachutist Badge must be from astatic line.[1]
The master parachutist badge is1+1⁄2inches (38mm) wide at the widest part of the wings and1+13⁄64inches (31mm) from the top of the wreath to the bottom of the parachute where the risers meet in a point.
Titles of Distinction