US. Navy-USMC Aviator Badge

Unlike their Army and Airforce counterparts, Navy and Marine aviator badges are only granted at one level instead of on a three-tier system. Once an officer has successfully completed advanced flight training, they will be awarded with their aviator badge and further their career with a duty posting that will follow with many hours of flight time. The Navy-USMC Aviator Badge is awarded to those who successfully complete the requirements for naval aviation training. The badge is considered a mark of distinction and is highly sought after by those interested in serving in the United States military due to its notorious level of prestige and achievement. To be eligible for the Navy-USMC Aviator Badge, an applicant must:

• – Be a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps
• – Have completed the entire course of instruction at an accredited naval aviation school
• – Have been designated as a naval aviator by the Chief of Naval Operations or Commandant of the Marine Corps
• – Possess the aeronautical rating of pilot, navigator, or air traffic controller
• The Navy-USMC Aviator Badge is awarded in three grades:
• – Basic (for those who have completed the required training and meet the eligibility requirements)
• – Senior (for those who have at least 5 years of commissioned service and 3 years of active flying duty)
• – Master (for those who have at least 10 years of commissioned service and 6 years of active flying duty)

The lucky personnel deemed worthy of this badge must wear it with honor and distinction at all times. They represent not only themselves, but their entire unit and the US Navy/US Marine Corps. Individuals are expected to exceed the upmost expectations from their superiors and peers in order to avoid discrediting the program itself. There have been several cases in which aviators were stripped of their coveted badge and reassigned to ground duty for disciplinary reasons. The loss of the right to wear the Aviator Badge is a serious matter and is not taken lightly by the Navy or Marine Corps. Those who are no longer authorized to wear the badge often feel as though they have let down not only themselves, but their fellow service members as well. It is important to remember that wearing the Aviator Badge is a privilege, not a right, and that with great privilege comes great responsibility. Those who do not adhere to the high standards expected of those who wear the badge are subject to losing it and being reassigned to ground duty. The Aviator Badge is a coveted symbol of excellence in the US Navy and Marine Corps. It is awarded to those who have demonstrated exceptional skill in aviation and have met the rigorous training and testing requirements. The badge is not only a sign of professional achievement, but also a sign of personal pride. So, if you’re lucky enough to be awarded the Aviator Badge, cherish it and wear it with pride knowing that you’ve earned it through hard work, dedication, and excellence.