This is an original WWII STERLING SILVER  full size Combat Infantryman Badge or CIB


This is an old original pinback WWII version of the CIB and is still in current use by those authorized to wear it.  This is a US Army Combat Infantryman Badge.   The CIB was first authorized during World War II (1944) and continues to the present day as one of the most prestigious awards a soldier can earn.  The CIB signifies that an INFANTRYMAN or Special Forces Soldier has been in actual combat against a hostile enemy force.   The CIB is worn above all other badges and ribbons on the Army uniform.  It is marked STERLING. I have not tried to clean it. This example has some nice patina and was definitely worn by a soldier at one time. It also has tarnish that could be polished. I will leave that up to you. There is also some flaking away of the blue background. 
See Photos.


In 1944 Army Chief of Staff, George C. Marshall initiated the development of an award to honor the U.S. Army Infantryman. The Office of Heraldic Activity of the Quartermaster General began work on designing a badge that would represent the U.S. Infantry's tough, hard hitting role in combat and symbolize proficiency in the Infantry arts.

The CIB and EIB are only awarded to U.S. Army personnel who hold Infantry or Special Forces military occupational specialties (MOS). To be awarded the EIB, the service member must complete a testing phase which is the culmination of weeks of training, leading to a final evaluation period. The EIB test is administered on the average once per year with pass rates usually averaging less than 10 percent, depending on the unit conducting testing.

Personnel who have been awarded both the EIB and the CIB are not authorized to wear both decorations simultaneously. In such cases, the CIB has precedence according to Army Regulation 670-1.

 

The Badge of Glory

 

Of all the medals upon our chests

From all the battles and wars we knew,

The one admired as the very best,

Is the one of Infantry blue.

 

It’s only a rifle upon a wreath,

So why should it mean so much?

It is what it took to earn it

That gives it that magic touch.

 

To earn this special accolade,

You faced the enemy’s fire.

Whether you survived or not,

God dialed that one desire.

 

For those of us who served the cause,

and brought this nation glory,

It’s the Combat Infantryman’s Badge

That really tells the story.

 

Author unknown


See Photos. A nice addition to any elite insignia collection. See my other auctions for more parachute wings and elite unit memorabilia. Winning Bidder pays $5.00 postage and handling. Insurance, if desired, is extra. Email me if you have any questions. Payment in U.S. Dollars by PayPal (PREFERRED for immediate shipment).

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