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Identification of Military Pins

As far back as medieval times, people have used symbols to commemorate or reward achievements, especially those involving military service or valor. In the United States, military pins have been made and used since the Civil War. Pins may display an individual's rank, specialty or unit identification. They may be worn on sleeves, collars, chests or headgear. The uniform codes book for each branch of the military describes in detail the instructions for placement of pins on uniforms. Every branch of the military has specialized pins. Some pins are official and some are not. Pins are also available for civilians wishing to show support of our troops.

Things You'll Need

Military pin
Uniform code books
Internet access

Instructions

Visual Examination
- 1
  Look at the pin and make note of any text. Many have words such as "Department of the Air Force" or "United States Navy."
- 2
  Look at and make note of the symbols indicating what division of the military the pin is from. Different divisions have different markings. For example, most Marine Corps pins have an eagle in the upper left and an anchor angled from the upper right to the lower left.
- 3
  Note if certain jobs or occupations are shown using their particular markings, such as flags, guns, aircraft or eagle wings.
Search the Resources
- 4
  Using key terms (such as parachute, submarine, stealth fighter, etc.) from your visual inspection notes, search the uniform codes listed in References.
- 5
  Search the websites listed in Resources using key words from your visual inspection, such as eagle wings, crossed flags, or World War II military pins.
- 6
  Take the pin to a local gun show for assistance. Experienced people, often retired members of the military, will be able to help you identify the pins.
- 7
  Take your pin to a military surplus store; these stores typically have hundreds of different pins from most brigades and battalions. The sales staff may be able to help you identify the pin.
- 8
  Take a photograph and email it to the Institute of Heraldry, which has a small staff of researchers who---on a very limited basis---may assist with identification of military pins.

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