The Navy uses patches to indicate not only the rank of a sailor but the job they do, which is called a “rate.” Typical Navy rates fall under various categories, including medical, construction, aviation, and others. A handful rates have been disbanded, combined with other rates, or simply dissolved throughout the years, but those sailors […]

Well-Grounded: 5 Air Force Occupational Badges and Insignia
The Air Force has many enlisted members who perform duties unrelated to flying. These duties, or occupations, are part of what keeps the pilots flying and missions on target. Occupational badges, first introduced in the 1950s, recognize the qualifications, training and education that airmen receive in a field. They are broken up into different Career […]

Stars, Stripes, Chevron: 4 Most Iconic Army Rank Insignia
The United States Army is one of the mightiest armed forces in the world. The different ranks and branches require distinctive visual cues for quick identification. Over the years, various Army rank insignia has proven to be more iconic of the principles and beliefs of this military operation than others. The ranks are divided into […]

How Times Have Changed…Army Rank Insignia Through the Years
Military rank is about more than protocol. Rising through the ranks is about honor and skill. As your display of Army badges and insignia changes, so too does your responsibility for–and to–others.

Best Gifts for Your Marine Corps Boot Camp Graduate
Graduating from basic training is no small feat, especially for a Mairne. Your new Marine has endured weeks of brutal physical and mental exercise, and they have survived! As they enter their new careers in the Marines, you may be looking for something sentimental to commemorate the occasion or something they will be able to […]