The main difference between the CIB and this award is that the Combat Infantryman Badge is awarded for participation in infantry ground combat, while the Expert Infantryman Badge is presented for completion of an approved Army training course.
Due to the rigid testing procedures, many holders of the Army Expert Infantry Badge value it more than the CIB. Personnel who have been awarded both the Army Expert Infantry Badge and the CIB are not authorized to wear both decorations simultaneously. In such cases, the individual soldier may decide which to wear on this uniform badge on the Army uniform.
Army Expert Infantry Badge – Design
Description: A silver and enamel military badge 7/16 inch in height and 3 inches in width, consisting of an Infantry musket on a light blue bar with a silver border.
Symbolism: The bar is blue, the color associated with the Infantry branch. The musket is adapted from the Infantry insignia of branch and represents the first official U.S. shoulder arm, 1795 model Springfield Arsenal musket. It was adopted as the official Infantry branch insignia in 1924.
Award Eligibility: Personnel must meet Department of the Army established testing requirements and must possess a military occupational specialty within Career Management Field 11 (Infantry).
Army Expert Infantry Badge – Inception
Date Approved: The Expert Infantryman Badge was approved by the Secretary of War on 7 October 1943, and announced in War Department Circular 269 dated 27 October 1943.
Subdued Badge: The subdued badge is authorized in metal and cloth. The metal badge has a black finish. The cloth badge has an olive green base cloth with the rifle and border of the bar embroidered in black.
Miniature Badge: A miniature badge, 1-3/4 inches in length and 3/8 inch in height, is authorized in lieu of the regular size badge. A dress miniature badge, 1-1/4 inches in length and 3/16 inch in height, is also authorized.
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