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Combat Medical Badges

An oxidized silver badge 1 inch in height and 1 ½ inches in width, consisting of a
stretcher crossed by a caduceus surmounted at top by a Greek cross, all on and
over an elliptical oak wreath.  Stars are added to indicate subsequent awards; one
star at top for the second award and one star at top and one at bottom for the third
award.

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The Medical Corps insignia of branch, modified by the addition of a Greek cross
suggesting the Geneva Convention between the wings and the entwined serpents,
signifies the recipient’s skills and expertise.  It is superimposed upon a stretcher
alluding to medical field service.  The oak symbolizes steadfastness, strength
and loyalty.

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The following medical personnel, assigned or attached by appropriate orders to an
infantry unit of brigade, regimental, or smaller size, or to a medical unit of company
or smaller size, organic to an infantry unit of brigade or smaller size, during any period
the infantry unit is engaged in actual ground combat are eligible for award of the badge, provided they are personally present and under fire during such ground combat.

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The Combat Medical Badge was approved on 29 January 1945.  In February 1951,
the proposal to designate the badge as a one-time award was rescinded and it was
approved for subsequent award during specified periods.  The addition of stars to
indicate subsequent awards was also approved.  Policy changes were approved
on 12 May 2004, by the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1.  On 11 February 2005, the
Chief of Staff, Army, approved changes to the CMB policy.

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