Rare original 56th Field Artillery Brigade QRA Pershing Professionals Badge, locally produced in West Germany for qualified members of the U.S. Army Pershing missile force.
Commonly nicknamed the “Pocket Rocket” or “Pershing Pickle,” the Pershing Professionals Badge was a locally created proficiency award associated with the U.S. Army's Pershing nuclear missile program in Europe.
This example is the later 56th FA Brigade design featuring:
Following the brigade's early-1970s redesignation and insignia changes, the later badges were cast rather than stamped and incorporated the textured background and lightning bolts seen on this example.
The Pershing Professionals Badge was established to recognize proficiency among personnel associated with the 56th Artillery Group and later the 56th Field Artillery Brigade's Pershing missile mission.
The earliest examples were bronze. Silver and gold versions were subsequently produced. The badges were locally procured in Schwäbisch Gmünd, West Germany rather than being a standard Army-wide issued decoration.
After the early-1970s redesignation of the unit, the badge was redesigned with the 56th FA Brigade wording, lightning bolts and textured background represented on this example.
The badge was eventually withdrawn as the Army phased out authorization for locally created uniform awards in the late 1970s.
Metal CompositionThis is the silver-colored/silver version of the badge. It was previously represented as possibly being made of silver; however, the metal has not been tested, and no silver purity or precious-metal content is guaranteed.
ConditionOriginal vintage condition with age-related patina/tarnish, scratches, surface wear and discoloration. Both rear posts and clutch fasteners remain present.
The badge has not been polished or cleaned.
Please examine all photographs carefully. They are an important part of the description and show the exact badge you will receive.
A scarce piece of Cold War, Pershing missile, U.S. Army Europe and 56th Field Artillery Brigade militaria.
