Special Warfare Badge
The Special Warfare Badge, also known as the ?SEAL Trident?, is one of the most recognizable combat badges of the United States Navy. First created in the 1960s, the Special Warfare Badge recognizes those service members who have completed the Navy?s Basic Underwater Demolition course, or BUDS training, and have been designated as U.S. Navy SEALs.
The Special Warfare Badge is unique in the Navy in that it is issued in a single grade for both officers and enlisted personnel. This is partly due to the combined training that both officers and enlisted receive, side by side, when involved in BUDS training. The badge consists of a golden eagle clutching a U.S. Navy anchor, trident, and pistol.
Fradulent display of the Special Warfare Badge, in particular by persons who make false claims of SEAL membership, has increased in recent years due to the availability of the Special Warfare Badge for private purchase through military dealers, auctions, and the Internet. While there is no law against unauthorized wearing of the Special Warfare Badge on civilian clothing, a number of legitimate SEAL veteran groups spend time tracking, reporting, and exposing those who display the Special Warfare Badge without authority.
See also: Military badges of the United States
