The Basic Parachutist embroidered insignia is an original badge manufactured in the U.S.A. in accordance with appropriate U.S. Government specifications. The Parachutist badge is intended for wear on uniforms in NWU Type-II Desert camouflage. Background material for an embroidered badge must match the uniform on which the badge is worn.
The Parachutist Badge, also known as "Jump Wings," is a military badge of the United States Armed Forces awarded to members of the Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Navy. Each formation has its own requirements for earning the Parachutist Badge, which include flight courses, number of jumps completed, and years of service. The badge is awarded in three grades: Basic, Senior and Master.
An oxidized silver badge consists of an open parachute on and over a pair of stylized wings displayed and curving inward. The wings suggest flight and, together with the open parachute, symbolize individual proficiency and parachute qualifications.
The U.S. Army's Basic Parachutist Badge is awarded to all military personnel of any service who complete the US Army Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning, Georgia. It signifies that the soldier is a trained military parachutist, and is qualified to participate in airborne operations.
The Basic Parachutist Badge is a prerequisite for the Special Warfare Badge because parachute training is an integral part of the Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) program. During training, SEAL operator candidates generally do not wear the Basic Parachutist Badge, however, after earning the Special Warfare Badge, they will wear the USN, USMC Parachutist Badge (Naval Parachutist Badge).
