Can you wear your Marine unit patch as an Army combat patch if you deployed with the Marines? Policy appears to say no.

2015-09-26T22:13:44-04:00

Are there any other former Marines turned Army who don't agree with this ? (Have to look like a boot LT until I deploy with the Army)

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2015 10:31 PM

2015-09-26T22:31:09-04:00

Sir, do you have orders proving that you served with those units during deployments? As long as you have those, then there shouldn't be anything anyone can say about that. I have known several former Marines that wear their Marine SSI on the right sleeve.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Sep 26 at 2015 10:33 PM

2015-09-26T22:33:14-04:00

So much flair... for everything....

I imagine how much time you would spend putting together your uniform as a Marine compared to the Army stuff.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2015 10:37 PM

2015-09-26T22:37:00-04:00

ALARACT 178/2010

R 110431Z JUN 10

THIS MESSAGE HAS BEEN SENT BY THE PENTAGON TELECOMMUNICATIONS CENTER ON BEHALF OF DA WASHINGTON DC//DAPE-HR//.

SUBJECT: CHANGES TO THE WEAR POLICY FOR OTHER SERVICES LOGO PATCHES WORN AS SHOULDER SLEEVE INSIGNIA-FORMER WARTIME SERVICE (SSI-FWTS)

1. SOLDIERS WHO SERVED WITH UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS (USMC) UNITS DURING OPERATIONS THAT MEET THE CRITERIA OUTLINED IN AR 670-1, PARAGRAPH 28-17 WHO HAVE BEEN GRANTED WRITTEN APPROVAL BY THE DCS, ARMY G-1 OR A DELEGATED REPRESENTATIVE ARE AUTHORIZED TO CONTINUE WEARING THAT USMC LOGO PATCH AS THEIR SSI-FWTS.
2. IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE UNIT HERITAGE, UNITS COMPANY LEVEL OR HIGHER THAT ARE ATTACHED OR UNDER THE OPERATIONAL CONTROL OF USMC DEPLOYED UNITS WILL NO LONGER BE GRANTED AN EXCEPTION TO POLICY TO WEAR USMC LOGO PATCHES AS THEIR SSI FWTS. THIS POLICY IS EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.
3. INDIVIDUALS WHO SERVE WITH USMC HEADQUARTERS AS INDIVIDUAL AUGMENTEES ON STAFF WILL STILL BE AUTHORIZED TO WEAR USMC LOGO PATCHES.
4. HQDA POC FOR UNIFORM POLICY IS SGM KATRINA EASLEY, DSN 664-0620, COMM [login to see] . E-MAIL IS [login to see] .MIL.
5. THIS MESSAGE HAS BEEN APPROVED BY THE DCS, G-1.
6. EXPIRATION: THIS MESSAGE EXPIRES UPON NEXT PUBLICATION OF AR 670-1.

Response by LTC Yinon Weiss made Sep 26 at 2015 10:42 PM

2015-09-26T22:42:30-04:00

I went through this as well when I transferred into the Army, and felt the same as you do. I eventually looked up the regs and found that it was against policy to wear a patch from a non-Army unit deployment.. As per AR 670-1, 27-17 (a): "Authorization to wear a SSI indicating FWTS applies only to Soldiers who are/were assigned to U.S. Army units that meet the following criteria..."

Edited updated: If you were a Army Soldier at the time and attached to a Marine unit as part of a unit below a Company level (or individual augmentee), then it appears the Soldier can wear the Marine patch. However, this doesn't appear to apply to service while still in the Marines.

Response by MGySgt George W Iliffe Jr made Sep 29 at 2015 3:40 PM

2015-09-29T15:40:09-04:00

I just answered a similar post. We had an exchange officer from Ft. Lewis Wa. serving with us in the 1st Marine Division during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. I asked him about combat patch and he said AR prohibited it at that time.

Response by SFC Wesley Arnold, Jr made Oct 6 at 2015 6:34 PM

2015-10-06T18:34:01-04:00

CPT(P) David Thorp I can say yes based on pass experience (prior to retirement) or look up the latest update to AR 670-1 (which I'm sure you have already done). Press your S1 to run it up to G1 to get a definitive answer ... that is one "administrative specialist" question that is probably laid out separate from AR 670-1.

There is or can always be an exception to most issues (if done properly). My unit deployed to Somalia as single company to be attach as needed (at least that is how it seemed) ... our Company Commander submitted a request to ware our on BDE SSI versus that of someone may or maynot have had C&C of our unit.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2016 9:38 AM

2016-06-06T09:38:53-04:00

You can wear a Marine Patch if you were assigned to a Marine Unit while deployed. However, if you are a former Marine who deployed with the Marines, left the Marines and came into the Army, you can't wear the Marine patch. As a former Marine, did some research into regulations (after I sewed on my 2D Marine Division patch on mu BDUs) and learned I couldn't. Could have saved some money had I researched this BEFORE.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2016 10:01 AM

2016-06-13T10:01:10-04:00

I just had this conversation with my CSM this weekend. She called state JFHQ Personnel and was told that I am authorized to wear it

Response by SSG Mike Busovicki made Jul 5 at 2016 10:00 AM

2016-07-05T10:00:49-04:00

No.

You don't wear goofy white sailor hats if you've been on a cruise, so why wear anything else from another branch? I'd be less worried about a fashion show than leading Soldiers. The leaders I looked up to could have had nothing but name tapes on their uniform and I wouldn't have cared.

I noticed some folks wearing Marine patches when attached to MEF units, rather than their unit (or other Army parent units). Also a no-go.

While we're at it, Navy (or other branch) unit citations you've earned, no matter their precedence or prestige, are worn AFTER all Army unit awards (on the right breast of your Class A jacket).

Easy fix on combat patches: the unit patch on your left sleeve goes on the right sleeve when you come home. Period.

Response by CW3 Lance Owens made Jul 12 at 2016 11:41 AM

2016-07-12T11:41:02-04:00

I wonder why this has to be so difficult. Did you do wartime service in a deployed environment? Yes. What unit? 3rd Marine Screen Door Repair Bn. Do you have record of this? Yes Do they have a distinctive patch? Yes. You are authorized to wear it. Only the Army to could make something so simple so hard. Are they jealous that these former Marines didn't deploy with an Army Unit? If we spent more time executing common sense and less time fiddle farting around we would be a lot further ahead.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2016 12:01 PM

2016-07-12T12:01:51-04:00

Why do people care what combat patch someone wears? How does that impact your life, oh wait, it doesn't. Better things to complain about than this.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2016 12:34 PM

2016-07-12T12:34:56-04:00

There was a message sent out stopping the unauthorized wear of MEU combat patch. The only except was from the beginninng of the Iraq invasion and army soldiers that were assigned to a Marine unit while in a designated combat zone.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2016 1:15 PM

2016-07-12T13:15:20-04:00

The answer is no, as many here, and the AR and ALARACT said.

Drink water, move out, draw fire.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Jul 12 at 2016 2:42 PM

2016-07-12T14:42:52-04:00

If you are a Boot, whether enlisted or Officer, and you "look like a boot" there is no shame in it, for everyone is a boot at some point. But remember...how you walk, talk, and carry yourself had a lot more to do with "how you look" than your lack of medals/ribbons/patches/badges.

Some people never shake that "Boot-ness" off...if ya know what I mean.

Normally I might end with something about how, again, the Army wants to be more like Marines...as I seem to run into that on a weekly basis, without a lot of surprise.

However, instead of that, this time, I'm just going to toss into the ring that maybe your personal concern for what others think is the root of your problem. This isn't a (insert expletives) Fashion Show, people.

(Im sure someone will suspect I went a bit off topic here...my answer in short, is that I can barely believe the OP question even needed to be asked)

Semper Fi

Response by SPC Jared Adams made Jul 12 at 2016 11:27 PM

2016-07-12T23:27:51-04:00

We were authorized to wear the 1st MEF patch in Ramadi.

Response by COL Jeff Williams made Jul 13 at 2016 1:23 AM

2016-07-13T01:23:20-04:00

Wear what you want to wear. It will always be a catalyst for discussion

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2016 11:15 AM

2016-07-13T11:15:24-04:00

If you have the orders, yes you can. We did joint operations with the Mainies in 2004 and have orders to wear it. If any dirt bag camp up bashing me for wearing a marine patch I'd beat it into their forehead. Those were our brothers at the time, regardless of branch. It was a sign of respect from them to us. We were even award a Naval Citation during the same period. Those that are patch, badge and tab watchers should focus on their stale puddle career.

Response by SGM Paul Zedalis made Jul 13 at 2016 12:23 PM

2016-07-13T12:23:07-04:00

Yes you can. As long as you have orders. My unit was attached to the 1st Marine Division during Operation Phantom Fury. We eventually got official orders about a year later from the Department of the Army which outlined exactly what units were approved to wear the 1st MarDiv SSI. That being said...although I was authorized...I never did. Wore Army SSI.

Response by SFC John McGill made Jul 13 at 2016 12:43 PM

2016-07-13T12:43:15-04:00

I was attached to marines during desert storm because they switched to M1 tanks and didn't have mechanics. i was authorized to wear a marine patch.

Response by SSG Ronald Rollins made Jul 13 at 2016 2:46 PM

2016-07-13T14:46:37-04:00

The reg say no. I had a 1SG who told me to wear it. `He was also a former Marine. In Germany got called some pretty nasty things. I just told them I was attached to a Marine unit. I was in the Marine Corps from 87 to 96. I was deployed to DS/DS. I wore my 2D MARDIV patch in the Army.

Response by SSgt Gordon Olayvar made Jul 13 at 2016 4:43 PM

2016-07-13T16:43:26-04:00

Note: A couple years ago met a couple Army MP's working at Fort Shafter here in Hawaii, both were sporting 1st Marine Division patches. I asked them if they were former Marines...both stated that they were not. They then stated that while deployed to Iraq they were attached to the 1st Mar Division, it was there that they participated in a number of combat operations with the Marines primarily participating in convoy security (they were actually apart of the Marine Corp unit much like how the Navy assigns Corpmans to the FMF. It is my understanding that In the Army: while involved in combat operations, regardless of the service, you're authorized to ware the units shoulder patch as long as you were in a combat environment. Intersting to note. a number of female soldeirs are authorized to ware the 1st Marine Division patches as well being that they participated in the Lioness program where females were attached to Marine Infantry units to assist with handling local females within AO.

Response by PFC LeKendyl Watkins made Jul 13 at 2016 8:17 PM

2016-07-13T20:17:45-04:00

I was deployed with the Army reserves to a FOB in Iraq that just switched hands from Army 3rd ID, to Marine 2nd MEF... Because of the change of responsibility, we no longer fell under 3rd ID, and so weren't authorized to wear 3rd ID's patch, but were authorized to wear 2nd MEF. So basically, there is an Army Reserve unit with authorization to wear a Marine Corp combat patch. How does that sit with you?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2016 8:27 PM

2016-07-13T20:27:20-04:00

im a former Marine as well and deployed as an Infantry Squad Leader to Iraq in 2004-2005. Not only did I have to spend my first two Army years without a combat patch (I have since deployed) but I can't trade my Combat Action Ribbon in for a Combat Infantry Badge. I'm a blue rope wearing Drill Sergeant with no CIB. It sucks but atleast I have a "V" device on my NAM.

Response by Cpl John Mathews made Jul 13 at 2016 8:32 PM

2016-07-13T20:32:32-04:00

I am a bit confused by this discussion because Marines don't have authorized unit patches to wear on our uniforms. If the soldier is wearing a USMC unit patch wouldn't it be a non-issue patch? Can you be authorized to wear a patch that doesn't officially exist?

Response by SGT Mathew Husen made Jul 13 at 2016 8:40 PM

2016-07-13T20:40:34-04:00

I was attached to 2nd MEF when i was in Iraq and can wear their patch as a combat patch, all it takes is a memorandum

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2016 9:42 PM

2016-07-13T21:42:27-04:00

If you deployed with the Marines...as a Marine you are not allowed to wear that as a combat patch if you switch to the Army. Check the regulation.

Response by SPC Kirk Gilles made Jul 13 at 2016 10:08 PM

2016-07-13T22:08:02-04:00

CA guard guys do it.

Response by CPT Robert Boshears made Jul 13 at 2016 10:35 PM

2016-07-13T22:35:54-04:00

Marines don't issue official unit patches. Unless you are very old, from WW2.

Response by PO2 Jeff King made Jul 13 at 2016 11:26 PM

2016-07-13T23:26:38-04:00

Marines don't wear patches on their uniforms.

Response by SPC M F made Jul 14 at 2016 2:22 AM

2016-07-14T02:22:42-04:00

What army soldier would want to wear a marine patch? I was proud to be in the army. I felt like we were ambitious thinkers, more so then the marines. They had a job, I didn't want their job. I wanted my job. If I would have wanted to be a marine, I could have joined them. I would have rather been in the navy then the marines..So yes, us army soldiers were proud, and I still am proud of having been in the army..The U.S. needs all our branches of the military. Every individual should be proud of their decisions.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 10:23 AM

2016-07-14T10:23:22-04:00

I'm confused - Marines don't wear unit patches.

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Jul 14 at 2016 10:37 AM

2016-07-14T10:37:54-04:00

On my first deployment joint authorizations were sent out allowing the bloody buckets to wear 101st and for us to wear theirs if we wanted to. If there properly authorised, I don't see a problem with it.
Also I posted a picture of the MFR that authorised it.

Response by MAJ John Moran made Jul 14 at 2016 10:58 AM

2016-07-14T10:58:03-04:00

No. The regs are clear. The only time Marine SSI FWS are authorized is if you where attached to a Marine Unit as an Army Soldier.

That being said, Velcro is easy, and the National Guard is a somewhat unique animal. I had many prior service Marines in my Infantry Co., and I authorized wear of thier Marine SSI-FWS in the company area. On the understanding that it has to come off if, oh say, the Bn CSM makes a stink about it, or when you go TDY to NCOES etc.

Response by SGT Eliyahu Rooff made Jul 14 at 2016 11:05 AM

2016-07-14T11:05:11-04:00

From the fuss some people have made about wearing a Marine patch or award on an Army uniform, you'd think that the two branches were from different countries or had been at war with each other. One of my APC drivers was a former Marine who served in Vietnam, and wore his 1st Marine Division patch proudly on his right shoulder. I don't think anyone in the unit would have had the chutzpah to tell him to take it off.

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Jul 14 at 2016 12:10 PM

2016-07-14T12:10:39-04:00

Many moons ago, I knew a COL, MC, USAR that wore his 1st MARDIV combat patch as that where he was when he a mud Marine LT in ROK.

Response by Sgt Mike Sanderson made Jul 14 at 2016 12:21 PM

2016-07-14T12:21:32-04:00

I say no. As a Veteran Marine, they haven't earned the honor of being called Marine. I think it's sad that they would betray their branch like this, we don't want people who fail to show loyalty.

Response by SGT Dave Nelson made Jul 14 at 2016 1:01 PM

2016-07-14T13:01:45-04:00

Policy is correct. It is clearly a negative.

Response by SSG Grant Hansen made Jul 14 at 2016 1:03 PM

2016-07-14T13:03:08-04:00

My Guard unit was deployed to Iraq in 2003 and we were assigned to the 1st Mar Div since they didn't have nearly enough transportation assets to keep them supplied. We were with them for 6 months and as a result we were authorized to wear the 1st Mar Div patch and the Navy PUC that the division earned.

However, if you were deployed as a Marine and transferred to the Army, you are not allowed to wear any Marine patches. I do believe you are authorized to wear any ribbons earned while you were a Marine, though.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Jul 14 at 2016 1:16 PM

2016-07-14T13:16:40-04:00

Why would someone that's ALL YOU CAN BE Army would want to wear a Marines patch?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 2:09 PM

2016-07-14T14:09:12-04:00

I wear a Marine patch on the right arm. The reason being that Major General Zilmer of 1st MEF personally wrote Army Chief of Staff to ask that the Army units under his command be allowed to wear it. It meant something to us that a Marine general would do that.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 2:17 PM

2016-07-14T14:17:45-04:00

For what it's worth I was the S3 in an Army unit who deployed teams to assist other units and services. I don't remember the specifics but to wear the Marine patch in the Army uniform it takes an exception of policy letter I believe through the Army G1. They are not simply authorized as Army Soldiers to wear the Marine Patch by serving with the unit. It caused a lot of heart ache. Only one team I'm aware of got authorized to wear the Marine patch via the letter of exception.

On the admin side: Using Afghanistan as an example their authorized combat patch was USFOR-A due to the size of the element. The policy and regulation is pretty clear.

We had a number of subordinates units that wanted to wear the XVIII Airborne Corps patch and could not. They were only authorized the USFOR-A patch based on their orders. Their orders assigned them to USFOR-A and not XVIII Airborne Corps.

I had a team for my pervious unit attached to us in Afghanistan. They were authorized the USFOR-A patch.

On the leadership side: it's part of building the team and pride in the team. I totally get that and support it. They should have pride in their achievements and their team. But I would make sure I have the paperwork to back it up before I wore it in my DA photo.

Response by PV2 Jim Brown made Jul 14 at 2016 2:55 PM

2016-07-14T14:55:12-04:00

The PAARNG and the VTARNG were both attached to the 2nd MAR DIV during the push through Ramadi, Iraq. Both the PAARNG and the VTARNG are authorized to wear the 2nd MAR DIV patch. Some in the VTARNG are also authorized to wear the Bloody Bucket as well.

Response by SGT Sean Moore made Jul 14 at 2016 3:20 PM

2016-07-14T15:20:31-04:00

They're letting cross-dressing trannies in the ranks... and what kind of combat (FWTS) patch someone wears is what irritates you...?

Response by COL David Pelkey made Jul 14 at 2016 4:01 PM

2016-07-14T16:01:49-04:00

Keep in mind, the combat patch Isn't for others. It's for the wearer. Regs specifically state the Soldier can choose not to wear one. Their option.

Generally, Marine combat patches are authorized to Soldiers assigned to Marine commands. Goes back to WWII. As stated in regs. Of course, there is always exceptions to policy.

Someone may need to check me on this part, but Marines who branched over to Army are authorized to wear an earned CAR. I do know that a CAR can only be awarded to Marine and Navy personnel. An Army Soldier, even if serving with Marines in combat, cannot be awarded the CAR

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 7:16 PM

2016-07-14T19:16:26-04:00

This would be great if the Marine Corps had recognized unit insignia authorized for wear which they do not. Three versions back of AR 670-1 outlined this clearly in referring to WWII service authorizing them for wear. We currently have a writing of the regulation that allows wear of these insignia on a uniform for Army Soldirs only. Marines are not even authorized the wear. Unfortunate that we have written a regulation to appease someone that wanted to feel special.

Response by TSgt Marco McDowell made Jul 14 at 2016 7:21 PM

2016-07-14T19:21:49-04:00

As a Jarhead, I find this amusing. Aside from ribbons/medals, I don't see how a patch would transfer unless it was something earned by a unit in conjunction with sister service ops. Since I've never been in the Army, I find it weird to even have a patch stating you've deployed. Kinda figure that having a ribbon would satisfy most. Maybe they should just eliminate it to avoid all the chest puffing that I've seen in other threads concerning the patch. Are you considered a lesser soldier for not deploying with said unit? If so, maybe it's something to be addressed institutionally.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 8:33 PM

2016-07-14T20:33:33-04:00

Here's my take.

I deployed in support of a division level asset to 4th ID. They sent me out to go support 1st ID. I did more field work with 1st than 4th. I'd want to be authorized both patches.

When I came back, I only was given memorandums to wear CAPOC. So that's what I do.

The Army can say what they will, but once I'm out, CAPOC, Ivy Leaf, and Big Red One are all going in my shadow box. Haters can hate.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 9:18 PM

2016-07-14T21:18:08-04:00

Gonna file this under "Most Unimportant Things Ever".

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 9:35 PM

2016-07-14T21:35:31-04:00

Sir, my question to you is why is this so important now being that your in the Army to wear a combat patch, but while you were in the Marines this wasn't the slightest of problems because DEVIL DOGS don't wear them.

Response by SFC Richard Giles made Jul 14 at 2016 11:58 PM

2016-07-14T23:58:49-04:00

Lt. with all due respect Sir there's a few things you need to be corrected on. And if I'm wrong about this please correct me.
1. As a former Marine myself I don't recall ever wearing a patch.
2. Can you tell me how a Marine "turns" into the Army. We enlisted in the Army for various reasons but we'll always be Marines.
3. From your question it sounds like you are a Marine, correct me if I'm wrong. But when did you wear a patch in the Marine Corps? They haven't been worn since WWII. You may have bought 1 at the PX for whatever unit you were with but you probably didn't wear it with your uniform so how in the world can you expect to wear it with a Army Uniform?

Response by PO2 Michael Galey made Jul 15 at 2016 2:21 AM

2016-07-15T02:21:15-04:00

I served in the Navy in Vietnam on River Patrol Boats the Navy was assigned to MACV. I was told it was OK to wear MACV patch on my right shoulder of my BDUs and Class As.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 3:59 AM

2016-07-15T03:59:08-04:00

First of all you're not a Marine so hell no. Second of all Marines don't wear patches anyways so why would you think it's ok to wear a Marine patch.

Response by PO3 Scot Fahey made Jul 15 at 2016 6:25 AM

2016-07-15T06:25:50-04:00

Direct Support DIRSUP , inter service assignments You hump the same hills, breath in the thin air, but when awards are due, alas you were not there

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 7:30 AM

2016-07-15T07:30:59-04:00

I have deployed with 2 MAR DIV, 1,2, and 3 MAW. I have the paperwork showing the deployments were for more than 30 days and I was directly attached to those major Commands. I wear them, because I can. Ever wonder why most Soldiers wear the USMC patches they got? Because deep down, they know the Marines are simply better. And yes, I am a Marine(82-91),

Response by TSgt SHawn McCarter made Jul 15 at 2016 10:57 AM

2016-07-15T10:57:05-04:00

Follow up question sort of related: A friend ask me this one, I'm not sure the correct answer and have seen this both ways. If your former Army and you have jump wings, Do you wear them on an Air Force uniform? There is a req that says all Aeronautical badges must be worn but does that cover jump wings?

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 11:55 AM

2016-07-15T11:55:34-04:00

I wear the 1st Marine Division patch (Guadalcanal). I served under them in Ramadi and have the letter from Army DCS G1 and GEN Mattis allowing those under our UIC to wear it.
Now as to why I wear it when I have 3 other deployments under my belt? My grandfather was in the 1st Marine Division during Guadalcanal and he left us in 1982. So you can see how this simple thing connects me with someone I barely knew in my family.
The other reason? Because I am authorized to. There are other things to worry about.

Edit - Another good reason: The 1st MARDIV was an awesome group of professionals. Yes there were issues but in the end, the guys I worked with were top notch.

Response by CPT Devin Miller made Jul 15 at 2016 12:15 PM

2016-07-15T12:15:44-04:00

The 224th Engineer Battalion out of the Iowa Army National Guard was authorized to wear 1MARDIV and 2MARDIV Marine unit patch as their combat patch. Had to get written approval through the SECDEF.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 1:07 PM

2016-07-15T13:07:13-04:00

I wear 1st Marine Div. Not because I used to be in the Corps, but because, as a soldier, our unit was with 1st Mar Div in Iraq

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 1:09 PM

2016-07-15T13:09:00-04:00

The last time i checked the regs was 12 years ago and also with my Sgt. Major. Former Marines can wear Combat patches from the Marine Corps. Providing you served in a combat theater. Lets say you served in Desert Storm/Shield with the 1st Marine Division, 2nd Battalion 6th Marines. There is no regulation in writing that states you can not wear a 1st Mar Div patch or 2d Bn 6th Mar patch if there is such.......You have to asked your Sgt. Major?..... I ran into a army sgt. marjor who told his former marines fuck no......If you served in the Army during OIF's in area of operation by 1st Mar Div - i saw army units with 1st Mar Div combat patches. I ask what was going on? i was told it's a mar div area. the unit authorize them to wear marine division combat patch. My Sgt. Major told me either wear the CAR ribbon or a combat patch. can't have both.

Response by SSgt Alex Torres made Jul 15 at 2016 2:06 PM

2016-07-15T14:06:07-04:00

Marines have patches? Who knew? I never wore one. I don't recall anyone in the Corps ever wearing one, unless it was an aviator or air crew member wearing their squadron's logo on their flight suits. That's about it, though. One thing that I will tell you that we always wore in every uniform was our Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. Semper Fidelis!

Response by MAJ John Kirkbride made Jul 15 at 2016 3:06 PM

2016-07-15T15:06:39-04:00

I have to say I don't know the regulations on this, but I earned Naval Jump wings (5 jumps from USN/USMC aircraft). The rule is you can wear one set of US Jumpwings but not both. As a Master Parachutist (3 years Jump status, JM qualified and 65 jumps) I never considered wearing the USN wings (10 Jumps total with 5 from USN/USMC Acft)

I day all that to say, that I would think that if you served in combat with another service and met the requirements you should be able to wear that patch. It's not about Army or USMC patch, it's the folks you served with in combat and a if that happens to be Marines then you should be able to proudly were that patch.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 3:18 PM

2016-07-15T15:18:30-04:00

I deployed for 15 months to ramadi, we 3ID 1st BDE were attached to the marines 1st MEF I believe. We received orders for their patch. I personally don't wear it because to cheap to buy it lol

Response by 1LT James Teener made Jul 15 at 2016 3:57 PM

2016-07-15T15:57:14-04:00

I cannot say regarding present criteria. I do know that, back in the 40's and 50's, Army personnel can and did wear Marine unit patches if they had served in those units during wartime. My father had served in the Navy as a forward observer for naval guns. He landed with the second wave of Marines on Saipan and Tinian, and directly supported the 2nd and 6th Marine Regiments, 2nd Marine Division. They wore divisional patches on their green and khaki class A uniforms at that time, and, after leaving the Navy (which NEVER authorized shoulder insignia) on receiving a Regular Army Commission in 1949, he was authorized to wear the 2nd MARDIV patch. As it happens, his unit, 27th Inf Rgt, 25th Inf Div, went into Korea less than a year later, and he wore the Tropic Lightning ever after. We discussed this a couple of times as I was growing up, and he commented that he could wear not only the 2nd MARDIV patch, but also the Fleet Marine Force Pacific (FMFPAC) patch, which was a rarity. IMHO, whatever unit has the most meaning to the individual, and which he has earned while being shot at, should be authorized. I'm glad I don't have to read/interpret today's regs/policies.

Response by Cpl Thomas Woods made Jul 15 at 2016 4:15 PM

2016-07-15T16:15:50-04:00

Then Why have the Clothing Sales Stores carried Marine patches in subdued variations? I was under the impression that if a Marine served in combat with one of our divisions, and then cross-decked to the Army, His combat service would be recognized by being permitted to wear a combat patch of that Marine Division. I could be mistaken, as I know little of Army regs, but I've seen a good many Dogfaces sporting my 1st MarDiv patch on their right shoulder. And as a Marine I find it hillariously ironic that Marines are not allowed ANY unit patches on our uniforms, but if we served in combat and then join the Army, then and only then we could sport our patches. I'm disability retired, and I found a cotton Sateen shirt at a gun show for $10. Had it embroidered w/ the EGA and USMC on the L pocket, and WOODS, T.W.F. across the shoulders. On the L shoulder is the scarlet cocked square with a gold 4 of the 4th Marine division, who I was with when I retired. On the R shoulder is the blue diamond containing the 5 stars of th Southern Cross, and within them is a red 1, embazoned with the white letters GUADALCANAL vertically, of the legendary 1st Marine Division, with whom I served in harm's way. Sometimes I run across an old Soldier who says "I didn't know Marines had Division patches". I say We do, but haven't worn them on our uniforms since shortly after WWII.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 4:24 PM

2016-07-15T16:24:46-04:00

The Army has done this in numerous wars and conflicts. In WW1 the Germans were so scared of Marines they gave them the name Teufel Hund, "Devil Dog" due to their ferocious fighting. The Army would wear their legging and try to make their uniforms look more like Marines to scare the enemy. Semper Fi!

Response by LCpl Ryan Green made Jul 15 at 2016 4:33 PM

2016-07-15T16:33:31-04:00

The only things that any professional warrior should wear is rank, name and branch of service. Problem solved, problem staying solved.

Response by SFC Michael Garutti made Jul 15 at 2016 4:33 PM

2016-07-15T16:33:34-04:00

Read ALARACT 005/2007 for guidance on SSI-FWTS.

You're only authorized to wear another units patch of you have written approval from the DCS, Army G1 or a delighted representative.

If you don't you are only authorized your unit's patch.

Response by SFC Michael Garutti made Jul 15 at 2016 4:35 PM

2016-07-15T16:35:13-04:00

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 5:16 PM

2016-07-15T17:16:33-04:00

I have remained silent on the issue of the ssi, combat patch, because I wasn't able to deploy after 911 because of civilian law enforcement job due to army national guard made it a priority for those who are in law enforcement be teamed up the Air Force Security Forces to handle the airport security to which I was responsible for the training and operational aspect throughout the state. I did this for my whole recall which this operation was known as operation noble eagle. Because of my background is preventing me from deploying but felt I was instrumental in keeping this country safe for duration of active duty. Then in 06, as DS, with 95th Timberwolves we were preparing for mobilization to Afghanistan to which you became political our orders were to send it another company was said in their place. For a second time not having the ability to deployed. As a result of these two incidents, I have been able to promote because I lack deployment and other people within my unit downgrade my mobilization to operation Noble eagle. Before units were being sent overseas I was already mobilized to serve in this capacity and the state federal government felt it was necessary 4 me and among others to perform this function. As a result I don't have the ability to wear combat patch because of my mobilization within the United States. I feel that I pay for myself in a honorable and sacrifice myself on the streets of California for many years before my retirement as a law enforcement officer and yet I am not consider member of the combat soliders in my unit. So if Marines wear their patch then I should have the ability to wear mine but I can't

Response by Cpl Tommy Loyd made Jul 15 at 2016 5:31 PM

2016-07-15T17:31:09-04:00

I think the only Units Authorized to wear a Marine Patch is our Navy Corpsman.

Response by SPC Michael Mead made Jul 15 at 2016 5:35 PM

2016-07-15T17:35:36-04:00

What about the Corps? Does the USMC authorize wearing the CIB?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 5:43 PM

2016-07-15T17:43:16-04:00

Originally AR 670-1 verbiage was vague and by its vagueness, didn't say you couldn't. Then when those retarded tattoo policies were put out the language clearly said you couldn't. When they removed the ridiculous tattoo policy they went back to the vague language in FWTS patches that would allow for its wear under these circumstances. Because of the vague wording it more or less falls on commander discretion and the unit. I haven't had any issues with the two commands I've been with recently.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 6:04 PM

2016-07-15T18:04:13-04:00

As long as I can remember, marines do not wear patches on any of their uniforms.

Response by TSgt Sylvia Powell made Jul 15 at 2016 6:36 PM

2016-07-15T18:36:23-04:00

Well I know here at Fort Hood Air Force Weather and TACPs help support Corp, Division and CAV. Wore the patches while they were stationed here. I was here to support my Air Force comrades and chose not to.

Response by A1C Elizabeth Adams made Jul 15 at 2016 8:33 PM

2016-07-15T20:33:18-04:00

Can someone explain to me why deployment patches are such a big deal? The Air Force doesn't have them and I can guarantee you that pilots deploy a LOT. I've seen some that have deployed so many times they no longer have to get the anthrax shots because they've finished the series.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 8:48 PM

2016-07-15T20:48:26-04:00

If you are attached and they are the MAJCOM, then yeah, you get to wear their patch.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 8:49 PM

2016-07-15T20:49:47-04:00

Army Soldiers were pimped out to support USMC operations for years. In some instances these Soldiers were treated better by the USMC than by their own branch.
They fought and bled together. They learned a new way of conducting operations aside from the Army's "check the block/ PT belt in a war zone" standard. While the Marines are focused with fighting a war with antiquated equipment, the Army is concerning itself with which color pattern uniform is cooler. Let these Soldiers stand out as an asset and wealth of experience not as something for a regular nazi to complain about. If it wasn't for my deployments with the USMC I wouldn't have learned solutions like using a 5 ton tire as a substitute for a Buffalo (RCP vehicle not trailer) tire when we didn't have the "one of a kind" type. I'd still be waiting on the supply system 7 years later

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 9:43 PM

2016-07-15T21:43:04-04:00

A Milper was published several years ago addressing this. The Marine patches aren't authorized regardless of what memos units may have handed out. You are only authorized to wear the patch for the parent unit you were assigned to for that deployment. For example, I deployed with 3d ID and worked in both Marine and 1st AD AOs. I am only authorized the 3d ID patch for that deployment. Leaders need to know and enforce these changes and it does not happen all too often.

Response by CW2 Guy Compton made Jul 15 at 2016 9:44 PM

2016-07-15T21:44:05-04:00

If a Army unit (below Bn level) deploys attached to a Marine Regiment or Brigade level command) there should be no problem and anyone who has a problem with it is being trivial.

Response by Sgt Kelly Overmyer made Jul 15 at 2016 9:55 PM

2016-07-15T21:55:14-04:00

FUCK NO

Response by SFC Michael Fulford made Jul 15 at 2016 10:09 PM

2016-07-15T22:09:29-04:00

Before I retired, in 2013, I wore the Marine Corps 1st MEF. The reason, is the Army, selected me to be on a MITT team, before units started setting up their own. I was assigned in Fallujah, with 11 other guys, we were the only Army team in Fallujah. We reported directly to the Marines, and all of our support came from the Marines, all of our orders, were through the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force. It has nothing to do with Army Pride, but pride in the job that I did, and as a Memorial for one of my Team Mates, Major Michael Mundell, US Army, KIA 5 January 2007, Route Cathy IED.
So before judging people for wearing a Marine patch, why not ask why they wear it.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 10:10 PM

2016-07-15T22:10:39-04:00

I am in the bloody bucket, (also authorized the big red 1 and 3rd ID as combat patches). I personally know several of these soldiers that served under a marine command in Falujia. They earned the right to wear it, AND were given permission to wear it as a combat patch.

Response by SPC Thomas Carroll made Jul 15 at 2016 10:40 PM

2016-07-15T22:40:01-04:00

My DI was in Vietnam as a Marine. Wore his Marine patch on left shoulder proudly as a Army Staff Sargent.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 10:40 PM

2016-07-15T22:40:42-04:00

You joined the Army, so wear your Army shit. Don't try and mix and match uniforms.

Response by CW3 Matt Hutchason made Jul 15 at 2016 10:55 PM

2016-07-15T22:55:26-04:00

There are worse things than a former Marine wearing a combat patch of their former unit in an army uniform. As a former Marine myself, I considered doing it. Anyway, we had a Black hawk pilot in our unit on our first Afghan tour. This was Dec 2002 - August 2003. We used to rotate a crew to Orgun-e as a QRF. This one guy was there for maybe 2 weeks and flew a resupply mission for some SF guys. Somehow, he conned that unit into cutting him orders to wear an SF combat patch, and he wore the thing. Complete glory hound. He was a PAC clerk at 75th Ranger Regiment, but he was sure sporting the Ranger tab. As usually happens with idiots like this, he crashed a helicopter due to poor decision making and human error (no fatalities) and lost his wings a few years later. Me, I wore a combat patch exactly twice: upon return from my last Afghan tour (by direct order) and my retirement. Both times, it was an 82nd patch, the unit I was in for most of my Army life.

Response by SPC Jon Libby made Jul 15 at 2016 11:00 PM

2016-07-15T23:00:19-04:00

I didn't know Marines had a unit patch, but I think they should be allowed to if they deployed with a unit.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 11:03 PM

2016-07-15T23:03:11-04:00

Absolutely, there should be no issues with former Marines (potentially with more or "real" combat experience) wearing a MARDIV combat patch. As opposed to what, a "naked" right shoulder? What "leader" would want to demean their newly converted "green to green" soldiers in such a dramatic way. It smacks of organizational prejudice! And i do mean "prejudice" in the most negative sense of the word!

Response by SFC Rick H made Jul 15 at 2016 11:12 PM

2016-07-15T23:12:17-04:00

you Senior leaders out there in uniform, need to challenge your soldiers to read AR 670-1. I will bet you one paycheck that your soldiers can read and comprehend at least at 10th grade level and some even have college. its pretty much easy to answer and a done deal! HOOAH

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2016 11:33 PM

2016-07-15T23:33:38-04:00

It appears to say that you were in the marines and now want to wear a patch from the marines in the Army so you look like you have experience. As the marines do not wear patches, you were never authorized to wear any combat patch. Since you were never authorized in the marines to wear one, you are not authorized in the Army to wear one.

Response by SGT Philip Keys made Jul 15 at 2016 11:54 PM

2016-07-15T23:54:39-04:00

We had a LTC that wore a marine combat patch. He got it from Vietnam. I never questioned him since he earned it and went through hell to get it. He did not have any army combat patches to my knowledge.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 12:43 AM

2016-07-16T00:43:21-04:00

Is the deployment on your ERB/ORB? I was a Navy Corpsman with the Marine Infantry before I switched over to being an Army Medic. I deployed with the Marines and the deployment is on my ERB. Simple enough if it on your record and you have earned it, wear it proudly

Response by Sgt Tim Brown made Jul 16 at 2016 12:58 AM

2016-07-16T00:58:00-04:00

I was only Seargent when I left. So don't quote me. If you were attached to a marine unit. You get what the unit gets, unless it's an individual award.

Response by SSgt Edward Trevino Jr. made Jul 16 at 2016 3:13 AM

2016-07-16T03:13:14-04:00

Unless your Army unit deploys under a Marine Division you can't were your Marine unit patch. Sorry even then it would be the Division your under maybe not the one you deployed with. Other than that take pride in the fact that you deployed and you have experience and teach others who haven't. Learn the Army traditions. You will always be a Marine. You earned that but your in the Army now. From one Marine and Solder. Semper Fi and Army Strong!

Response by SGT Donald Heine made Jul 16 at 2016 4:22 AM

2016-07-16T04:22:58-04:00

We had a Vietnam vet from the Marine core get into some trouble over this in my old cohort unit on Ft. Lewis. They eventually discharged him.

Response by SFC Robert Smith made Jul 16 at 2016 5:29 AM

2016-07-16T05:29:07-04:00

My brother did his Vietnam tour with the Marines, after he got out he Joined the Army, we were in the same unit in the Army for awhile, and during class A inspection they always ask where is your combat patch, he always Said it was not worn in the Marines and he was not wearing it now he was a W-1 helicopter pilot at the time and very proud of his time in the Marines I also think he enjoyed the looks he got he did wear his combat ribbons and service stripes. so I think lets leave that to the Marines!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 7:26 AM

2016-07-16T07:26:23-04:00

As long as their is paperwork to follow. I am authorized to wear 3 different USMC patches from my Iraq deployment. Each one came with a memorandum from HQDA approving that USMC DUI as SSI-FWTS.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 8:22 AM

2016-07-16T08:22:40-04:00

Yes, it is authorized in plain english; within 670-1 .

Response by SFC Rick H made Jul 16 at 2016 8:59 AM

2016-07-16T08:59:05-04:00

I believe its only difficult for those who do not read. Its really quite simple troopers- read AR 670-1. The regulations was written to guide you as to exactly what and how you should wear your uniform and awards. If you earned it, and its noted on your official papers then you should be authorized to wear it. I ran into the same situation when changing my mos from 11B to 63W. I earned my colors through infantry school- my blue rope, my blue disks for my cover and my branch and U.S. insignia. Well, during my first formation at Fort Hood, I was busted out hard by our 1SG as to why I was wearing infantry colors- I told him I was infantry first but I changed my mos. He said I had to remove my colors. Can anyone tell me in what situation I could wear my infantry colors in formation? if you know the answer, please reply? thank you Troopers. Rock Steady. HOOAH

Response by GySgt Jason Romano made Jul 16 at 2016 9:26 AM

2016-07-16T09:26:53-04:00

Marines do not wear unit patches. Units do have patches, or shields, but we do not out them on our uniforms. So, why would a soldier want to wear a patch on their uniform if the Marines s/he is serving with isn't.

Response by Cpl Kent Mitchell made Jul 16 at 2016 10:30 AM

2016-07-16T10:30:01-04:00

We don't have unit patches in the Marine Corps. They started in WWII and went out shortly afterward. The thinking was/is all we need is the EGA, and I agree.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 10:55 AM

2016-07-16T10:55:40-04:00

The deployment you are referring to is the 2005-2006 Al-Anbar rotation in which 3/7 and 3/8 co-owned the Ramadi battle space with 2nd Brigade 28th Infantrt Div. Together the brigade and the marines lost a total of 85 KIA brothers and sisters. Both units fought side by aid in combat outposts and fielded the first Iraqi Security Forces post the 2003 invasion. This marked the bloodiest time of the war for US forces in Anbar. The marines, in understanding and appreciating the Army's tradition of combat patches, awarded 2nd brigade with the 2nd Marine Div combat patch. Since you are a never deployed, done nothing butter bar, I feel like you needed this history lesson. I am neither a PA guardsman, or a member of 2nd Mar Div, but I did volunteer to fight with these brave men and women in this uncertain period in the Iraqi conflict as a MTT team member. I saw more death on this deployment than any other I participated in. Here is some free advice for your future career: DO NOT talk about things you don't know about, and listen to those who know. Also salty infantryman and true combat vets will tell you to shove 670-1 up your ass until you can eat it.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 11:34 AM

2016-07-16T11:34:34-04:00

Don't matter with your sleeves rolled up like some fry cook

Response by MSG Neil Martin made Jul 16 at 2016 11:46 AM

2016-07-16T11:46:11-04:00

You are authorized. Also to get your panties in a bunch. If you are Marine Infantry and have a combat medal you can wear CIB or the medal. But not both if you transfer to the Army from the Corp.

Response by SSG Samuel Fortune made Jul 16 at 2016 11:55 AM

2016-07-16T11:55:19-04:00

The fact that this was posted anonymously bya LT should speak loudly. He/she have probably been around the Army what aweek, and dont know their head from their ass.

Response by SSG George Mathewson made Jul 16 at 2016 11:56 AM

2016-07-16T11:56:44-04:00

That is correct but I think you can wear medals that you have earned. Check on that one. Too many years ago.

Response by PO2 Chris Lambert made Jul 16 at 2016 11:57 AM

2016-07-16T11:57:35-04:00

The 1st Brigade (Tiger Brigade) of the 2nd Armored Division, was attached to us (2nd Marine Division) during Desert Storm. From what I saw later on a Soldier's uniform, the 2nd Mar Div patch, they were allowed to wear them because they were under Administrative and Command control of the Marine Division. If they were simply just fighting along side us in the same vicinity, they would have not been able to wear them. I was in the Division HQ after the war was over, on rear-party, and I remember a request coming across some Colonel's desk which was a request for Navy Achievement Medals for EVERY one of the soldiers that served with the Marine Division. I remember what he said, and he pretty much went like this...."If everyone of my Marines does not get a medal, I'll be damned if everyone of these soldiers is going to get one from us!!". It was an interesting situation to say the least!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 12:32 PM

2016-07-16T12:32:23-04:00

The following is an excerpt from AR 670–1 • 10 April 2015 page 33

I am a Marine who served in Desert Storm in 90-91. That was wartime service as a Marine not under any Army command. The regs are quite clear on this. If you participated as a Marine in a combat zone and not attached to an Army unit you do not wear a Marine Division patch. I have not met anyone who is currently wearing a Marine division patch on their Army uniform that meets the criteria stated below. Look at paragraph 3 specifically. Remember you must have been a Soldier assigned to a Marine Unit at the time of deployment.

Shoulder sleeve insignia–former wartime service
a. General. Authorization to wear a SSI indicating FWTS applies only to Soldiers who are/were assigned to U.S.
Army units that meet the following criteria in subparagraph (1) below:
(1) Required criteria—
(a) The Secretary of the Army or higher must declare the theater or area of operation as a hostile environment to
which the unit is assigned or Congress must pass a Declaration of War.
(b) The units must have actively participated in or supported ground combat operations against hostile forces in
which they were exposed to the threat of enemy action or fire, either directly or indirectly.
(c) The military operation normally must have lasted for a period of 30 days or longer. An exception may be made
when U.S. Army forces are engaged with a hostile force for a shorter period of time, when they meet all other criteria,
and a recommendation from the general or flag officer in command is forwarded to the Chief of Staff, Army.
(d) The Chief of Staff, Army must approve the authorization for wearing the SSI for FWTS. Note: Units are not
authorized to modify their SSI or SSI–FWTS without prior approval from the DCS, G-1. A mirror image SSI-FWTS is
considered a modification. In addition, TIOH must approve the design of any modification and authorize its manufacturing
in accordance with paragraph 2–3.
(2) Personnel who served in a designated area as a civilian or a member of another Service, but were not a member
of the U.S. Army during one of the specified periods are not authorized to wear the SSI-FWTS.
(3) Unless otherwise approved by this regulation, Soldiers attached or under operational control (OPCON) to other
services are not authorized to wear their patches as their SSI-FWTS without written approval from DCS, G-1 or a
designated representative.
(4) Soldiers of all Army components (Active, ARNG, and USAR) who deploy during periods of service designated
for wear of the SSI-FWTS are authorized to wear a SSI-FWTS. There are no time-in-theater requirements for
authorization to wear the SSI-FWTS. Soldiers may not earn more than one SSI-FWTS during the same deployment.
(a) A deployed unit (company or higher) will wear its unit SSI as the SSI-FWTS, reg

Response by GySgt William Hardy made Jul 16 at 2016 2:56 PM

2016-07-16T14:56:11-04:00

I never looked up the regs on whether or not I could wear the 1st MAW patch or not. I did a tour in Nam with 1st Maw and I wore the patch when I joined the Army National Guard. Nobody seemed to care. Then one day a Captain came up to me and asked me where I got the patch. I noticed he was wearing a 1 MarDiv patch. He said he wore it because he couldn't find a 1st MAW patch. I told him where I got it. After some 20 years I got a tour to Iraq and the new Army patch took its place; however, I wore the 1st MAW patch for the entire tour until we were authorized to wear 3 different patches (2nd CAV, 15 Sustainment, and 115FA) The entire time I was in Iraq, many people saw my Marine patch and nobody said a word, including many colonels and a couple of generals.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 3:30 PM

2016-07-16T15:30:43-04:00

Read ALARACT 178/2010. If you were your Company or higher than NO. If you were by yourself attached to their HQ, then YES.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 3:31 PM

2016-07-16T15:31:40-04:00

I'm a 12-year Marine who turn National Guard I see no disrespect and respecting someone else's patch I don't really know that situation but because they respect the Marine Corps patch you don't have to disrespect the Army patch some people appreciate the difference I'm just one of them

Response by SGT David Stead made Jul 16 at 2016 3:49 PM

2016-07-16T15:49:48-04:00

I accordance with: Army Regulation 670-1 , Section 28.17 the answer is no you can not wear a unit patch from other branches. The whole section is listed below. C (3) Covers other branches.

I honestly thing the combat patch has seen its day. I re-classed to the needs of the Army in 2005. I was issued all new uniforms they were still BDU's as I was coming back to the Army from the US Air Force. I went thru school as permanent party with the new trainees coming from basic training. I was told by more that one of the trainees I had nothing to teach them as I had no combat patch so I was just a buck sgt. At that point they did not know I had been down range on more than one deployment. The questions came at graduation along with the respect that should have been given an NCO in the first place. Once they saw me in my class A uniform. Because I was not wearing one of the combat patches I was authorized the E-4 and below assumed I was a pos and had nothing to teach them and my orders had less weight

a. General. Authorization to wear a shoulder sleeve insignia indicating former wartime service applies only to soldiers who are assigned to U.S. Army units that meet all the following criteria. Soldiers who were prior members of other Services that participated in operations that would otherwise meet the criteria below are not authorized to wear the SSI–FWTS. Wear is reserved for individuals who were members of U.S. Army units during the operations.

(1) The Secretary of the Army or higher must declare as a hostile environment the theater or area of operation to which the unit is assigned, or Congress must pass a Declaration of War.

(2) The units must have actively participated in, or supported ground combat operations against hostile forces in which they were exposed to the threat of enemy action or fire, either directly or indirectly.

(3) The military operation normally must have lasted for a period of thirty (30) days or longer. An exception may be made when U.S. Army forces are engaged with a hostile force for a shorter period of time, when they meet all other criteria, and a recommendation from the general or flag officer in command is forwarded to the Chief of Staff, Army.

(4) The Chief of Staff, Army, must approve the authorization for wear of the shoulder sleeve insignia for former wartime service.

b. Authorization. Authorization applies only to members of the Army who were assigned overseas with U.S. Army organizations during the following periods.

(1) World War II: between 7 December 1941 and 2 September 1946, both dates inclusive.

(2) Korea: between 27 June 1950 and 27 July 1954, both dates inclusive. Also from 1 April 1968 to 31 August 1973, for those personnel who were awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman badge, Combat Medical badge, or who qualified for at least one month’s hostile fire pay for service in a hostile fire area in Korea.

(3) The Vietnam theater, including Thailand, Laos and Cambodia: from 1 July 1958 to 28 March 1973, both dates inclusive.

(4) The Dominican Republic: 29 April 1965 to 21 September 1966, both dates inclusive. Individuals are authorized to wear one of three organizational SSI: XVIII Airborne Corps, 82d Airborne Division, or 5th Logistical Command. Individuals previously attached, assigned, or under the operational control of these units will wear their respective insignia. A fourth organizational SSI (OEA-Spanish equivalent of Organization of American States) is authorized for individuals who were not in one of the three units listed above.

(5) Grenada, to include the Green and Carriacou Islands: between 24 October 1983 and 21 November 1983, both dates inclusive. Personnel are authorized to wear one of the following organizational SSI: XVIII Airborne Corps; 82d Airborne Division; 1st Special Operations Command (ABN); 1st Corps Support Command; 20th Engineer Brigade; 35th Signal Brigade; 16th Military Police Brigade; 44th Medical Brigade; 1st Battalion (Ranger), 75th Ranger Regiment; 2d Battalion (Ranger), 75th Ranger Regiment; and 101st Airborne Division (AASLT). Individuals attached to, or under the operational control of these units will wear their respective organizational SSI. Individuals attached to, or under the operational control of any unit whose parent organization is not authorized SSI, will wear the SSI of the unit to which attached or the unit that had operational control.

(6) Lebanon: from 6 August 1983 to 24 April 1984, for soldiers assigned to the Field Artillery School Target Acquisition Battery or the 214th Field Artillery Brigade, who were attached to the U.S. Marine Corps forces in and around Beirut, Lebanon, for the purpose of counterfire support.

(7) Korea: 23 November 1984, for soldiers who directly participated in the firefight with North Korean guards at the Joint Security Area (JSA), Panmunjom, Korea.

(8) Persian Gulf: from 27 July 1987 to 1 August 1990 for soldiers assigned or attached to, or under the operational control of a unit whose mission was direct support to Operation Earnest Will. Soldiers must have been eligible for the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and imminent danger pay.

(9) Panama: from 20 December 1989 to 31 January 1990 for soldiers assigned to the following units, and who participated in Operation Just Cause: XVIII Airborne Corps; U.S. Army Special Operations Command; U.S. Army South; 7th Infantry Division (Light); 82d Airborne Division; 5th Infantry Division (M); 1st Special Operations Com- mand; 193d Infantry Brigade; 1stCorps Support Command; 16thMilitary Police Brigade; 18thAviation Brigade; 35th Signal Brigade; 7th Special Forces Group; 75th Ranger Regiment; 1st, 2d, and 3d Battalions, 75thRanger Regiment; 470thMilitary Intelligence Brigade; 525thMilitary Intelligence Brigade; 44th Medical Brigade; 1109th Signal Brigade; Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command; and CIDC. Soldiers assigned to units not listed above will wear the shoulder sleeve insignia of the unit to which attached, or the unit that had operational control. Soldiers assigned to units not listed above and not attached to, or under the operational control of any of the units listed above, will wear the SSI of the U.S. Army South.

(10) The Persian Gulf: from 17 January 1991 to 31 August 1993, both dates inclusive, for soldiers participating in Operation Desert Storm. Soldiers must have been assigned or attached to, or under the operational control of a unit whose mission was direct support to Operation Desert Storm; they must have received imminent danger pay and been under the command and control of U.S. Army Element Central Command (USAE CENTCOM).

(11) El Salvador: from 1 January 1981 to 1 February 1992, both dates inclusive, for those personnel who partici- pated in El Salvador operations.

(12) Somalia: from 5 December 1992 to 31 March 1995, both dates inclusive, for soldiers who participated in Operation Restore Hope/Continue Hope/United Shield. Exceptions are for Joint Task Forces: Patriot Defender, Elusive Concept, and Proven Force; those personnel are authorized to wear SSI–FWTS even though they were not under the command and control of USAE CENTCOM.

(13) Operation Enduring Freedom: from 19 September 2001 to a date to be determined, for soldiers assigned to Afghanistan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan; and from 31 July 2002 to a date to be determined, for soldiers deployed to the CENTCOM area of operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom authorized combat zone tax exclusion as identified by CENTCOM CCJ1 AOR Danger Pay Entitlements. Soldiers who were deployed in the area of operations on training exercises or in support of operations other than Operation Enduring Freedom are not authorized the SSI-FWTS, unless those exercises or operations became combat or support missions to Operation Enduring Freedom.

(14) Operation Iraqi Freedom: from 19 March 2003 to a date to be determined, for soldiers assigned to units participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Soldiers must have been deployed in the CENTCOM area of operations, or participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom while deployed in Turkey, Israel, and Aegis cruisers. Soldiers who served with the 1st Marine Division from 19 March 2003 to 21 April 2003 during combat operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom are authorized to wear the 1st Marine Division shoulder sleeve insignia as their SSI-FWTS. Soldiers who were deployed in the area of operations on training exercises or in support of operations other than Iraqi Freedom are not authorized the SSI-FWTS, unless those exercises or operations became combat or support missions to Operation Iraqi Freedom.

c. How worn.

(1) Non-subdued. At the option of the wearer, individuals who were members of an Army unit during one of the operations listed above may wear the non-subdued U.S. Army organizational SSI of a wartime unit (para 28–17b) that was approved by HQDA on the right sleeve of the Army green uniform coat. The insignia is worn centered, 1⁄2 inch below the top of the right shoulder seam (see fig 28–136).

(2) Subdued. Authorized personnel may wear the subdued SSI–FWTS on the right sleeve of the temperate, hot- weather, enhanced hot-weather, and desert BDU, and the BDU field jacket, as described above. The SSI–FWTS is not authorized for wear on organizational uniforms, except as prescribed in this paragraph.

(3) Other services. The Department of the Navy, the United States Marine Corps (USMC), and the Air Force do not authorize wear of SSI. Therefore, personnel who served in one of the designated areas during one of the specified periods, but who were not members of the U.S. Army, are not authorized to wear the SSI–FWTS on their right shoulder. The only exception to this policy is for U.S. Army members who served with the USMC during World War II from 15 March 1943 through 2 September 1946.

d. Soldiers who are authorized to wear more than one SSI–FWTS have the option of choosing which SSI–FWTS they will wear. Soldiers may elect not to wear SSI–FWTS. (See appendix F for further guidance on the wear of the SSI–FWTS.)

Response by Stephen Keyser made Jul 16 at 2016 3:56 PM

2016-07-16T15:56:05-04:00

Army is good with patches, ribbons, badges, all sorts of gee daw....they get a ribbon for everything. I never wore a single unit patch on Marine issued uniforms.. in any of the divisions, regiments etc.. I did server with Army units and never wore any of their trash and trinkets, although we did raid my dad's WW2 stash and Screaming patches.

Response by SGT Charles Kovach made Jul 16 at 2016 4:46 PM

2016-07-16T16:46:41-04:00

I was wearing the 1st Marine Division patch while in the army and nobody said a word

Response by SSG James N. made Jul 16 at 2016 5:11 PM

2016-07-16T17:11:55-04:00

As a former Marine, had I served while in the Army with Marines, I would wear that patch, same as I wore a Naval Jack flag patch I traded for.
It's a patch. Suck it up. If you don't like it, go pound the proverbial sand. Bottom line, IT DOES NOT AFFECT YOU,and it does not affect 134

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 5:18 PM

2016-07-16T17:18:30-04:00

Army reservists who are individually augmented to Marine units are still authorized to wear Marine patches. Those who were in supporting/subordinate Army units prior to 2011 are still authorized to wear theirs with orders. I wear mine daily and also in my DA photo.

Response by SSG Jason Gilmore made Jul 16 at 2016 5:43 PM

2016-07-16T17:43:02-04:00

When I switched over from Marine to Army, my 1SG told me I should. I reviewed the regs and found the paragraph specifically saying it was prohibited. The only Former Marines authorized to wear a USMC Combat patch were WWII veterans, since the Marine Corps did away with unit patches after WWII. So if you see someone wearing one now, he is wearing an unauthorized patch.

Response by Sgt Steve Huguenard made Jul 16 at 2016 5:50 PM

2016-07-16T17:50:31-04:00

Nope can't wear patches from other services on your uniform. You will be out of uniform and can be subject to being written up. If you want to put it on civilian attair like a jacket fine, but not your uniform.

Response by LCpl Herman Vanderwart made Jul 16 at 2016 5:59 PM

2016-07-16T17:59:46-04:00

However I know a fine Army chaplin who proudly wears a 1st MARDIV o-d patch on his cammies. He was assigned to the USMC three times in theater. A wonderful WO who does great work for homeless vets in the RI are. God bless you sir.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 6:09 PM

2016-07-16T18:09:38-04:00

I have quite a few buddies who were down range as Marines, and a few who even deployed with Marines. They wear their Marine unit combat patches instead of their Army patches.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 6:51 PM

2016-07-16T18:51:34-04:00

Yes you can wear a Marine patch if you were awarded it. AR 670-1 lists the marine patches that historically have been awarded to Army units for past conflicts not sure if it has updated to the War on Terror yet. In 2005 my BCT was OPConed to the 2nd MEF for the deployment and were given a exception to policy letter authorizing us to wear the 2nd MEF patch as our SSI-FWS. It had to be approved by G-1 Pentagon and listed the units that could wear it.

Response by SFC Bruce Scott made Jul 16 at 2016 8:45 PM

2016-07-16T20:45:56-04:00

Most abused uniform rule in the Army, & it's the C of S' fault. Once upon a time, the overseas insignia was worn on the right sleeve, signifying the Soldier has deployed as part of his unit during a combat action (o'seas tours where an O'seas Svc ribbon is awarded are not unit deployments and never counted). This was meant to recognize Army service by Army personnel. Prior service, other service veterans can wear O'seas service bars (including CAR, NAV or AF Ach/Comm medals) on the service and dress uniforms (w/o a unit patch). Other services don't wear unit insignia anyway, so get over it. To muddy the waters thoroughly , Army personnel attached to other units of the other branches (notably the Female "Tiger Teams" attached to MC units to interact w/female Iraqis (Initial MC didn't deploy w/female Marines)) were awarded that unit's insignia. EVEN IF UNIT's ORGANIC PERSONNEL COULD NOT WEAR SAID INSIGNIA! If I were in charge, all non Army insignia would be banned from the Army uniform. Period.

Response by MSgt Bill Loveli made Jul 16 at 2016 9:13 PM

2016-07-16T21:13:52-04:00

Silly shits! Why should anyone wear a Marine unit patch on a uniform when Marines don't EVER?
These are for wear on civilian apparel. We don't parade around announcing we are in such and such. We are all MARINES period!

Response by MSG Clark Shumway made Jul 16 at 2016 9:34 PM

2016-07-16T21:34:20-04:00

The Marine Corps does not have combat patches......They have I love me patches that the Army including myself have worn. (1st Marine Division) But that all they are. I was in theater with them at the end of Viet Nam war. But it is not authorized on an Army uniform......

Response by 1SG Gary Bacon made Jul 16 at 2016 9:37 PM

2016-07-16T21:37:50-04:00

If your worried that much about patches, you're probably in for the wrong reason.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2016 9:49 PM

2016-07-16T21:49:55-04:00

As a former Marine, I have to say, "Suck it up!" The regs are the regs, and a patch doesn't define you. Now in the National Guard, I've corrected both enlisted and commissioned officers on this. Personally, it bothers me to see Soldiers wear any type of Marine patch, period. You didn't wear them in the Marine Corps, so stop trying to look special and attract attention. You can be proud of your service and deployments from the Marine Corps without a patch.

Response by Cpl Michael Neumaier made Jul 16 at 2016 10:12 PM

2016-07-16T22:12:02-04:00

Patches? We don't need no stinking patches!!! Semper Fi

Response by SPC Patrick Chandler made Jul 17 at 2016 5:02 AM

2016-07-17T05:02:33-04:00

Heh...this should be a non-issue...however I know for a fact someone in a leadership position has made this their priority because they feel like they need to be in charge of SOMETHING.

Can you wear it? Yes, under specific conditions. End of discussion.

The fact that this requires an in depth discussion, specifically with persons of rank greater than E-6, reinforces my continued belief that the leadership in the Army has made it their priority to ignore actual priorities.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2016 10:13 AM

2016-07-17T10:13:58-04:00

They earned it!! Why not let them wear it!!! ... The only thing I can think of it "offends" someone who has never deployed?! And it's not fair!! ... Well pull your panties out of you ass and suck it up! Maybe that individual could teach you a thing or two!! ... If you want to be a war fighter! You have to learn from the ones who have been there?!?

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2016 10:23 AM

2016-07-17T10:23:46-04:00

Who needs stinkin patches

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2016 10:36 AM

2016-07-17T10:36:47-04:00

Nope

Response by 1SG Richard Anderson made Jul 17 at 2016 11:35 AM

2016-07-17T11:35:38-04:00

Ar 670-1 para 21-17(d)(3) should answer the question.

Response by Sgt Christian ORourke made Jul 17 at 2016 12:39 PM

2016-07-17T12:39:45-04:00

To keep it simple, NO. We do not earn a PATCH. We do have Wings, Scuba Bubble, Combat Air Crew Wings. All of these we can wear if we transfer to army, air force or navy. But a patch. No. We only wear a patch on our flight suits and jackets. So NO. You can wear whatever you want out of uniform. I have a patch from 3rd Battalion 3rd Marines, but the only thing it is good for is hanging on a wall. Devices, as mentioned before, only if you earned them as a marine. You received a souvenir for you time, nothing more.

Response by LCpl Chris White made Jul 17 at 2016 1:14 PM

2016-07-17T13:14:13-04:00

I think it's just sad that someone needs a patch to display their accomplishments.
Get over it and move the Hell on.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Jul 17 at 2016 1:28 PM

2016-07-17T13:28:02-04:00

WTF is a Marine unit patch? The one you wear on your civy wind breaker?

Response by LCpl Mac Fields made Jul 17 at 2016 1:31 PM

2016-07-17T13:31:52-04:00

Have a friend from my old unit in the Gia d now, we're both 1st MARDIV. His combat patch is that of the 1st Marine Division. No one in his guard unit, not at drill, not during his two weeks has ever complained about it !

Response by Cpl Robert Heiar made Jul 17 at 2016 1:48 PM

2016-07-17T13:48:14-04:00

Marine "unit combat patches" DO NOT EXIST. It is impossible for a soldier to be "authorized" to wear a Marine unit patch because unit patches have not been authorized for wear on Marine dress, service, or field/utility/combat uniforms since sometime shortly after WWII. Today they continue to be worn on civilian clothes, hats, & tee shirts as points of unit pride. The ONLY authorized uniform decoration denoting a Marine's combat service is the Combat Action Ribbon and it cannot be worn with the camouflage uniform. Therefore, logically, a soldier cannot wear an award that could not have been "earned" because it was never awarded or aurhoized by the United States Marine Corps, not to mention that unit combat patches simply do not exist in the Corps. Just because the uniform manufacturer Vanguard sells these things does not mean they are authorize by the CMC or Sec.Nav.

Response by SSgt Henry Phillips made Jul 17 at 2016 3:29 PM

2016-07-17T15:29:42-04:00

Last I knew The Marine Corps had no authorized unit patches, so if you are putting them on your uniform you are wrong. Unless some comes up with a Maradmin or other regulation saying it, this conversation is moot.

Response by SSG David McPherson made Jul 17 at 2016 4:55 PM

2016-07-17T16:55:38-04:00

Marines do not have unit patches

Response by LTC Norberto Diaz-Rivera made Jul 17 at 2016 5:53 PM

2016-07-17T17:53:37-04:00

It is not policy, it is a regulation!

Response by SFC Robert D. made Jul 17 at 2016 7:10 PM

2016-07-17T19:10:10-04:00

It is a simple process. You just need a copy of your orders or a unit diary from the Marine Unit you were attached too. Take your orders to your admin chief to be upload into the system.
Robert Downer
GySgt USMC 1975-1992
SFC Army 2003-2009

Response by CPL Daniel Cooper made Jul 17 at 2016 8:04 PM

2016-07-17T20:04:31-04:00

My dad was a Marine in Korea and later finished his service career in the Army and he work a 1st Marine Division patch on his right shoulder...

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2016 8:15 PM

2016-07-17T20:15:52-04:00

i could understand throwing a fit about it if you deployed with an army unit and a marine unit and choose to wear the marine patch. but if its earned its earned. i recently switched me personally i dont need a patch to tell me what ive done.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2016 8:31 PM

2016-07-17T20:31:27-04:00

Last I checked (and i served with several former Marines over the years who transferred to the Army and wore their Marine combat patch), it's perfectly acceptable because AR670-1 doesn't (or at least didn't) distinguish between *who* you served in combat with for the purposes of the former overseas unit patch wear.

The Marine Corps division patches are still "active", there simply isn't a Marine Corps uniform they are authorized for wear on. (Likewise, infantry combat time in the Marines counts - or at least used to count - for an Army CIB, if you transferred to the Army and went infantry.)

Response by MSgt Charles Vela made Jul 17 at 2016 9:16 PM

2016-07-17T21:16:43-04:00

As a retired Marine, there are no "unit" patches in the Corps, did away with them after WW2

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2016 10:10 PM

2016-07-17T22:10:41-04:00

You can wear the marine patch as a combat patch it's not against any regulation. Unless your unit says otherwise.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2016 11:41 PM

2016-07-17T23:41:06-04:00

Actually you can wear the Marine patch as an army combat patch. It just has to be documented and approved. I know because myself, my company and an several battalions do it. I have a letter in iperms from a Marine O6, giving us the Corps appoval to wear the parch. Everyone in my company also has the same letter. I have a choice of three diffrent combat patches to choose from and I choose the 2nd MEF patch. This is due to the fact that many of the Army people I dealt with the time were very unimpressive and trying to run a combat zone like garrison. I prefer the professionalism of the Marines I worked with to that of the Army. The Marines wanted to get the job done and Army wanted to fill out forms all damn day and keep soldiers from taking too many soda cans from the chow tent.

Response by MSG John Wirts made Jul 18 at 2016 1:41 AM

2016-07-18T01:41:00-04:00

When I was in the Army reserves we had many former Marines who had seen combat in Vietnam, and they wore their Marine combat patch on their Army uniform. Then the Marine Corps contacted the Army and explained that in the corps, marines who had been in combat, did not get to wear their combat patch until they retired. The Army issued an update to AR 670-1 the uniform regulation that no Marine Combat Patches were to be worn on Army uniform until the menber had retired, per Marine Corps Regulation. Hope that clears it up, the change occoured between 30-35 years ao.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2016 2:15 AM

2016-07-18T02:15:12-04:00

I have seen plenty of soldiers wear 1st MarDiv Right Shoulder Patches.

Response by CW2 Jonathan Smith made Jul 18 at 2016 2:23 AM

2016-07-18T02:23:34-04:00

C Co 1-214th, Al Asad 2007-2008. Deployed wearing the USAREUR patch and we were awarded that as well as 2nd/3rd MAW patches for wear as a combat patch. I can't remember how many people told us we couldn't wear any of those 3 as a combat patch. Got the orders to prove otherwise. I wore them all and was proud of each one. We were the first (and only as far as I know) to wear the USAREUR patch on the right shoulder since WWII. We also saved many Marines lives that deployment. So if someone as a problem with our pride in service, I say go pack sand.

Response by Sgt Edward Allen made Jul 18 at 2016 6:33 AM

2016-07-18T06:33:41-04:00

I'm sorry, but if you are in the Army, no. If I was a Lt. In combat due to battlefield commission, and then was reverted back to enlisted, would I still be allowed to wear officers uniforms?

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2016 9:59 AM

2016-07-18T09:59:20-04:00

If regulation allows, than yes.

Response by SPC Jay Hefty made Jul 18 at 2016 10:20 AM

2016-07-18T10:20:00-04:00

Respectfully sir, you are a boot Lt. Sure you have work experience but that is a completely different job than planning an operations with little to no accurate information. The purpose of the platoon leader is to learn how to lead and learn from the institutional knowledge of the senior NCO's. Being a Mustang LT you already have a leg up on your peers. You already know the troops are gonna bitch, it what troops do.
Your platoon and command will know you are not a boot by your military bearing and practical leadership not your "I was there patch"

Response by CW4 Brian Haas made Jul 18 at 2016 10:57 AM

2016-07-18T10:57:10-04:00

I wear 1st Marine Division as a combat patch sometimes. I was in the Army when we got that awarded to us, though. We supported them in Fallujah, and the Marine G1 sent something to the Army G1 to award that to us. It was in 670-1, too.

Response by Cpl Jon Westbrook made Jul 18 at 2016 2:50 PM

2016-07-18T14:50:25-04:00

Marines don't identify by Division like the Army does. If you ask a grunt who he's with he's going to tell you 1st Marines. 2nd Marines etc. So if we did wear a unit patch it would be a regimental patch as opposed to a Division patch. There are only 4 Marine divisions and all of the west coast would be identifying as 1st MARDIV. That's kinda counterproductive.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made Jul 18 at 2016 4:06 PM

2016-07-18T16:06:47-04:00

One of the things I am not really clear on is that in the Army you have a choice of patches. I served in the 115FA, but I am also authorized to also wear the patch of the 15th Sus. Brig, or the 2nd Cav patch. My unit 115FA was under the 15th which was under the 2nd Cav - all for one tour.

Response by SGT William Martinez made Jul 18 at 2016 5:23 PM

2016-07-18T17:23:05-04:00

Why you will wear a Marine Unit Patch (marine don't wear patches in uniforms,only marines transition to Army do wear a patch)...I think you should be proud of your unit patch....

Response by COL Carlos Burgos made Jul 18 at 2016 8:09 PM

2016-07-18T20:09:48-04:00

As my sarge would say "Too many stinking patches and badges", save them for your class A's. Utility uniformed should have only four - Service, Name, Rank and Branch (if applicable). If you really what to know about a persons history just ask him or her. Move on trooper...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2016 9:38 PM

2016-07-18T21:38:30-04:00

I wear the IMEF patch in my ACU's ...will continue to do so until a salty SMAJ tells me not to

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2016 11:28 PM

2016-07-18T23:28:55-04:00

People should spend more time worrying what is going on in America, instead of worrying about dumb patches that only fools worry about!!! But that's just my 2 cents on this.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2016 2:12 AM

2016-07-19T02:12:25-04:00

I personally don't care about if someone wears it or not. I choose not to wear mine I know where I have been and who was there. If it's that important. who ever needs that information can just ask.

Response by LtCol J W made Jul 19 at 2016 2:29 AM

2016-07-19T02:29:50-04:00

1st, Marines have not been permitted to wear unit patches since shortly after WWII. And if you show uo someplace wearing a Marine unit patch on other than a Marine uniform, be prepared to do battle. We are very protective of our colors and don't take highly to anyone not authorized!

Response by LTC Rod MacBride made Jul 19 at 2016 2:48 AM

2016-07-19T02:48:12-04:00

no. long time back ran this issue down for a Army former Marine. simple answer is that USMC units don't wear unit patches on their combat uniforms former Marines who are now Army don't have an equivalent SSI-FWi (combat patch) for wear.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2016 11:48 AM

2016-07-20T11:48:19-04:00

Usually there us a written policy about these unique situations. When by Army BCT was deployed under I MEF in Ramadi, we were authorized to wear the I MEF (FWD) patch or the 1AD patch, even though the division HQ element did not deploy.

Response by MSG Danny Stanley made Jul 21 at 2016 12:57 PM

2016-07-21T12:57:20-04:00

Short answer- NO. Long answer- AR 670-1 21-17 (d)(2) Personnel who served in a designated area as a civilian or a member of another Service, but were not a member of the U.S. Army during one of the specified periods are not authorized to wear the SSI-FWTS.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2016 3:49 PM

2016-10-25T15:49:33-04:00

If that was the unit you in combat it's allowed. I know people assigned to MIT teams who wear USMC patches. It was the unit they supported in combat.

Response by SGT Brian Watkins made Nov 3 at 2016 3:47 PM

2016-11-03T15:47:02-04:00

If you we deployed in direct support/ joint ops with a MEF, your unit has to get authorization to wear the combat patch. 1AD 1BCT for instance got authorization for II MEF when we worked with them in Ramadi 06-07. Some units in direct support were also awarded a NUC that was approved by the Army years later, but I'm not sure about the wear of that since I ETS'd.

Response by Cpl John Mathews made Dec 29 at 2016 1:09 PM

2016-12-29T13:09:14-05:00

This discussion doesn't end. I responded earlier and gave an explanation of why I thought it inappropriate to wear a USMC patch on an army uniform so I won't repeat myself. I do have a question for everyone who says it is OK. What about when you are attached to a foreign unit? Could you wear a British, Polish, French, Iraqi, or Aghani unit insignia? Which patch would take precedence? Keep in mind that I am a jarhead, so I know almost nothing about army regs or customs.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 5:25 PM

2016-12-29T17:25:27-05:00

If you have orders authorizing you to wear a marine patch as a combat patch then you can wear it. In 2004 my Stryker company was attached to the 1 MED in fallughia it took us eight months but we received by name orders and authorized to wear 1st marine combat patch

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Sep 25 at 2017 10:43 PM

2017-09-25T22:43:02-04:00

AR670-1 27-14
....(2) Personnel who served in a designated area as a civilian or a member of another Service, but were not a member of the U.S. Army during one of the specified periods are not authorized to wear the SSI-FWTS....

There is one small exception to policy for OIF for Soldiers serving with 1st MARDIV.

(14) Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF): between 19 March 2003 and 31 August 2010, both dates inclusive, for Soldiers assigned to units participating in OIF. Soldiers must have been deployed in the CENTCOM area of operations, or participated in OIF while deployed in Turkey, Israel, or on Aegis cruisers. Soldiers who served with the 1st Marine Division between 19 March 2003 and 21 April 2003 during combat operations in support of OIF are authorized to wear the 1st Marine Division SSI as their SSI–FWTS. Soldiers who were deployed in the area of operations on training exercises or in support of operations other than OIF not authorized the SSI-FWTS, unless those exercises or operations became combat or support missions to OIF.

Response by CPL Jonathan Roberts made Oct 16 at 2017 4:20 PM

2017-10-16T16:20:19-04:00

Depends. I deployed to iraq with my unit 3rd id. And we were also attached to marines. Secondary exhibition task force and only the unit I was with more allowed to either wear the attachment patch of the secondary Expedition task force or the 3rd ID patch on the right arm only as a deployment patch we shared a fob with the Marines in ramadi and Fallujah areas of operation controlled by the Marines not the army we were attached and helped out the Marines they were pretty cool

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made Sep 6 at 2018 6:49 PM

2018-09-06T18:49:17-04:00

Vietnam era you could wear a marine division patch from Vietnam. There were a number of former marines that displayed them. However, the army banned this around 1975 because some soldiers were sewing on CIB that had combat action ribons. This was around the time GEN Rodgers banned berets and other non issued headgear.

Response by MSgt Joseph Kuhn made Oct 19 at 2018 11:19 PM

2018-10-19T23:19:58-04:00

Yes you can. I knew an Army Colonel that went
To
Desert Storm with 1st Mar Div and that was the patch he wore

Response by COL Rich McKinney made Dec 19 at 2018 11:33 AM

2018-12-19T11:33:01-05:00

I had a guy in my OBC class in 1980 that did. The rule was that if it was authorized for wear by the Marines it was allowed. During Vietnam the Marines did wear a combat patch.

Response by Cpl Dan A. made Dec 19 at 2018 12:06 PM

2018-12-19T12:06:01-05:00

Hey Butter Bars,

If soldiers are wearing a 2nd Marine Division "combat patch" then we gave it to them out of them earning our respect for fighting beside us. I'd be touched to see a soldier proudly wearing it, as he is my brother and he certainly earned it, likely while you were still playing with your little Peter in High School. Learn your job and go fight. That's what you need to worry about.

Response by SGT Joe Griffin made Dec 19 at 2018 2:33 PM

2018-12-19T14:33:06-05:00

This reminds me of the ACU / BDU changeover, when ACU name tapes and rank weren't authorized, soliders had to rip off their bdu tapes and see Velcro on them. AR670-1 moves at the speed of Congress.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2018 5:11 PM

2018-12-19T17:11:52-05:00

Why not just stay in the marines if you're more proud of being a Marine than an Army officer? Plus, people will know you're not a boot when you are able to demonstrate/make use of the skills you learn while deployed with your fellow marines. If your deployment add no disernable value to your Army unit's mission, you're a boot as far as the Army is concerned. What I mean is a Marine patch means nothing if the Army is not gaining anything from it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2018 8:41 PM

2018-12-19T20:41:25-05:00

On my first rotation to OIF3 We were deployed under the 2nd MEF(forward) and we’re giving a Exception to policy that Authorized us to wear 2nd MEF(forward) as our FWS-SSI. The fact that the commanding general of 2nd MEF and the Commandant of the USMC wrote letters to US Army HQ and requested this is why I wear it.

Response by SSgt Bart Reno made Dec 19 at 2018 8:48 PM

2018-12-19T20:48:30-05:00

It is kind of reverse culture. Where do you think Marines got the Indian Head? 5th, 6th, Regiment and 4th Marine Machine gunner Battalion. Everyone forgets about the 4th, all get to wear the dope rope. The Indian Head is 2nd Army Division...... Heritage boys. Learn your history.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2018 8:49 PM

2018-12-19T20:49:00-05:00

So, my buddy who was a corpsman and deployed with a marine unit shouldn’t be allowed to wear the marine patch?

Response by CW2 Bob Hajny made Dec 19 at 2018 9:01 PM

2018-12-19T21:01:01-05:00

I was authorized to wear 1 MAR DIV and 3 MAR DIV combat patches for my time in Iraq attached to the Marine Corps. A Marine General had to recommend it and Army G1 (I think) has to approve it. However, Marines who served in combat and later changed branches are NOT allowed to wear the combat patch per regulation.

Response by SFC Dave Zaragoza made Dec 20 at 2018 12:31 AM

2018-12-20T00:31:37-05:00

Yes u can. Per Alaract 178/2010, updating approved wear by Army units.

I deployed several Army Reserve units at Company level, when at that time they were not approved their own patch as an SSI for FWTS. This permitted to wear USMC patch they were OPCON to, which was their higher Cmd.

Response by COL William Shea made Dec 20 at 2018 7:45 AM

2018-12-20T07:45:42-05:00

Marine’s can’t wear The Army Ranger Tab (current Chaiman of the Joint Chiefs is a Ranger School grad). They can’t wear CIBs or Air Assault wings either. Inter-service rivalry at its best!

Response by SGT Gary Martinka made Dec 20 at 2018 7:52 AM

2018-12-20T07:52:08-05:00

I deployed in 05 06 with the 28 inf div “the bloody bucket” the marines authorized their patch to be worn as a combat patch as a combat patch not a unit patch we lost a lot of personnel on that deployment so the patch became a symbol of pride because it was a really rough fucking deployment It became a symbol of were you were at The Sunni triangle at the most violent time of the war not some fucking I want to be a Marine bullshit we also earned 2 Navy unit citations from the 1rst and 2nd MAR DIV I am proud to have served under the Marines at that time but believe me we were never ashamed of the The keystone patch.

Response by 1LT Ryan Welch made Dec 20 at 2018 3:27 PM

2018-12-20T15:27:35-05:00

I deployed to Desert Shield/Desert Storm with the Army, 2nd Armored Division Tiger Brigade, and we were attached to the 2nd Marine Division. I am authorized to wear either combat patch but I always wore the "Hell on Wheels" because Pattan is my hero, and 2nd Armored Division was his favorite unit, known as "Patton's Own."

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2018 4:18 PM

2018-12-20T16:18:01-05:00

The Marines have never worn patches... Heck we didn't even wear name tapes until I believe 92 or early 93...

Response by Cpl Michael Rosplock made Dec 20 at 2018 5:48 PM

2018-12-20T17:48:09-05:00

We..the Marines..don't do combat patches

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Dec 20 at 2018 9:42 PM

2018-12-20T21:42:24-05:00

I had a SSG Squad leader in the AT Platoon that served in the 3rd Marine Division in Vietnam. He wore a. 3RD patch as his Combat Patch

Response by Cpl Jim Canning made Dec 20 at 2018 10:21 PM

2018-12-20T22:21:10-05:00

The combat patch is the patch of the unit you deploy with.

So if an Army Soldier is deployed with a Marine Unit, what is the issue with those soldiers wearing the unit patch of Marines they deployed with?

Response by SGT Tim Soyars made Dec 21 at 2018 9:28 AM

2018-12-21T09:28:02-05:00

In the late 70s and 80s, I saw many guys who had come into the Army that we’re Vietnam vets from the Marines. They were allowed to were their combat patch, jump wings, etc, from the Corp. Shouldn’t they be honored for their achievements? This who thing is like the deal where that general didn’t want people to wear the combat patch because it made those who hadn’t deployed “feel bad”. There are bigger problems, right now.

Response by SSG Wade L. made Dec 31 at 2018 11:49 AM

2018-12-31T11:49:21-05:00

I was with 6th Sfg after my RVN with the 1st MARDIV. From 69-77 I wore my Marine patch. My 1st Sgt had me change my CAR to a CIB as an equivalent award. My jump wings stayed the same.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2019 12:46 AM

2019-01-10T00:46:32-05:00

Yes you can. There are many if my colleagues that we're attached to 1st Marine Div and they were that patch as a combat patch

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Jan 15 at 2019 9:35 AM

2019-01-15T09:35:13-05:00

My understanding is, if you were in an Army unit attached to the USMC, then you're authorized to wear the Marine patch as your Combat Service Identification Badge. At least that was the reg when i was in Fallujah. The regulation may have changed since then.

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Jan 16 at 2019 3:27 PM

2019-01-16T15:27:37-05:00

Even in the older version of AR-670-1, there were certain Army units assigned to the Marines in WW-II who were authorized to wear the Marine division patch on their right sleeve. Many of us who were Army & assigned to the Marines in combat take huge pride in that fact. My unit has a letter from the 1st MARDIV saying we could wear their patch for combat service in Fallujah. The first battle of Fallujah was commanded by the Marines had only a handful of Army units assigned to them at the time. The Army still hasn't made a plain & simple rule about it. The Marine HQ would have cleared this up 15 years ago.

Response by MAJ Jimmy M. made Jan 18 at 2019 3:17 AM

2019-01-18T03:17:52-05:00

Is it a US Army unit? No. Why is this difficult?

Response by Cpl Geoff Smith made Jan 19 at 2019 12:35 PM

2019-01-19T12:35:39-05:00

Marines wore Division and Airwing Patches during WWII. Since Marine Units are not affiliated with the Army I don't see any reason to wear them on an Army uniform. Marines do not wear unit patches on ytheir own uniforms. Just suck it up until you deploy

Response by SGM Jeffrey Hall made Jan 19 at 2019 4:26 PM

2019-01-19T16:26:31-05:00

This is something that deserves further scrutiny. The Air Force has started transitioning to OCPs. I now work as a civilian employee of the Air Force and I see Airmen wearing uniforms with patches now. I distinctly remember how in the Army you would have to pole vault over a mouse turd for things that seemed implicitly simple. Maybe this will not be as hard as so many other things were during my career.

Edit

Response by MAJ Gregory Moon made Jan 20 at 2019 1:01 PM

2019-01-20T13:01:16-05:00

I had a former marine in my basic course in1982 and remember him wearing his Marine divisional patch. More recently in Iraq I observed quite a few soldiers who were with Marines in Anbar wearing marine patches as combat patches. So either a whole bunch of people are wrong or perhaps there's a strict interpretation and a generous interpretation. One problem is on the ASU finding the pin on version.

Response by Sgt Stonewall Jackson III made Jan 23 at 2019 10:52 AM

2019-01-23T10:52:05-05:00

Since the USMC has no Official unit patches that can be worn on a uniform, the Army rightfully doesn't recognize them.

Response by LTC Donald Donahue made Jan 23 at 2019 1:34 PM

2019-01-23T13:34:57-05:00

Chief: "Do they have a distinctive patch? Yes." Actually, No. The logic is that there is no official patch to be worn on Marine uniforms, therefore doing so on an Army uniform is inconsistent with the parent (to the patch) service policy.

BTW -- I have known former Marines to do so, and have no problem with it. We are talking about regulation.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2019 8:32 AM

2019-01-24T08:32:47-05:00

In my 30+ years of service in the ARMY, we had many former Marines join our ranks, those that had served in the Marines in Vietnam were allowed to wear their Marine division (1st and 3rd were the more numerous )patch on their right shoulder to show combat service There were no issues with this from any level of command that I am aware of. When serving as the 1SG in a couple of units I saw many of our former Marines who joined our organizations be allowed to wear their "combat" patch from Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan. Who in their right mind would disagree with this ?? Yes the Marines typically do not wear a unit patch but then they have left the Marine Corps and joined the Army which does wear unit patches

Response by Cpl Jesse Griffin made Jan 24 at 2019 3:44 PM

2019-01-24T15:44:56-05:00

When I enlisted in the Army after my Marine enlistment, I wore my 1st Marine Division patch and Marine ribbons on my Army uniforms, and nobody called me on it. I was actually complimented a couple of times by officers for wearing them.

Response by MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2019 10:54 PM

2019-01-25T22:54:14-05:00

Why yes you earned the patch as a Marine! No it doesn't translate to Army service. As a former Marine who retired from the Army you can't and shouldn't live in the past while serving in another branch. Set the example, You know your hardcore, showing a uniform patch doesn't mean more or less of the solider your are. Accept the fact your a combat vet that move on to another branch.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2019 11:22 PM

2019-01-25T23:22:54-05:00

You can’t wear it on your Marine uniform, why should you be able to wear it on your Army uniform? Listen LT, you’re worried looking like a boot, while you’re acting like one.

Army LTs are a dime a dozen - my advice wait until you’re worth “two bits” before you worry about not looking like a boot.

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Feb 3 at 2019 5:20 PM

2019-02-03T17:20:15-05:00

Thank you so very much for asking this question. Now i get to tell my most awesome stories from Iraq.

My unit was first stationed at FOB Kalsu, near Iskandiryah south of Baghdad at the bottom of the Sunni triangle. It was Alpha Company, Scouts, and the mortar teams.

In May the FOB was hit hard, we lost a soldier, and my BN commander pulled most of us back to CSC Scania, however the Marines had come in to relive us, and 8 members of our mortar platoon were requested to stay behind to support the Marines.

At the end of our tour, those 8 guys were submitted to HRC for an exception to policy to wear the 1st marine division patch as their FWTS Patch, and it was approved, for about a year the soldiers were mentioned BY NAME in AR 670-1.

So yes it is 100% possible to do, the Marine Corps just has to request an exception to policy.

Response by Cpl Bernard Bates made Feb 17 at 2019 10:58 PM

2019-02-17T22:58:57-05:00

I can tell you this. Marines don't like army soldiers wearing marine corp patches. If you have never been in the corp you wouldn't understand. You never went thought Marine Boot camp. That disqualifies you from the patch. I know a Marine General gave the army permission.. I spent 4yrs in the Marine corp and 3 years in the Army in Ammo companies. The difference was like night and day. I know the army likes guys that were in the Marine corp. They are better trained, better disciplined. I got out of the Marine corp as a cpl. I wanted to take basic training but the army wouldn't let me. If you went from the Army to the Marine corp you would have to go to boot Camp first. If you like wearing marine corp patches you should have joined the Marines in the first place. Then you would wear the EGA insignia, not a cloth patch. Semper Fi.

Response by 2LT Brad Klopp made Mar 5 at 2019 3:31 PM

2019-03-05T15:31:36-05:00

No! You cannot! Combat patches are for Army combat deployments only. Yes you’re a combat veteran, yes you are authorized to wear your combat ribbon, but combat patch is for Army combat deployments only! If you have switched branches, thank you for your service but respect Army procedure and policy. The only way you earn the right to wear an Army combat patch is to deploy with an Army combat unit in a combat environment!

Response by SSgt Chris Francis made Mar 14 at 2019 1:39 AM

2019-03-14T01:39:43-04:00

Wtf is a "unit patch"?

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2019 1:13 PM

2019-03-16T13:13:45-04:00

There are few who are actually authorized per the regulation, but many who just wear it anyway because they switch to Army and don't want to be a slick sleeve. The reg says, some from WW2 and a few from OIF (early OIF) and that's it. All others are not authorized. It's that simple. This shouldn't be that big of an argument. Your pride doesn't matter. Just because AAFES has the patch doesn't mean it's authorized.

Response by Maj John Bell made Mar 16 at 2019 1:23 PM

2019-03-16T13:23:21-04:00

Marine Unit patches are for non-uniform items like ball caps and flannel coats. They are not issue items. (We are taught to not give unit identifying information to the enemy.)

Response by CPT(P) David Thorp made Mar 16 at 2019 1:26 PM

2019-03-16T13:26:03-04:00

OMG Rally Point please stop this thread. I don’t care anymore and 3 years later people are still answering and it keeps notifying me over and over.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2019 5:09 PM

2019-03-16T17:09:04-04:00

No.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Mar 17 at 2019 7:58 AM

2019-03-17T07:58:07-04:00

Putting on my Remington Raider cap, were you in the USMC when you deployed? No. You were a soldier attached to a USMC unit. Why not wear the patch of your parent Army unit? Your record would reflect that as a member of, say the 82nd Airborne, you were attached to and deployed with the 2d MarDiv into a combat zone. No ambiguity there.
As a Marine, I'm not familiar with, and never particularly cared about the Army uniform regs associated with all the stuff designated for wear on their uniforms, as has been said, our EGA and service ribbon was enough for me, but it seems to me that your individual service recognition shouldn't depend upon your entire parent unit being assigned to a specific theater, or what unit you were attached to from your parent unit.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 19 at 2019 11:48 PM

2019-04-19T23:48:10-04:00

It doesn't work like that. The combat patch is Awarded by the Army to Soldiers. Even Marine patches can be awarded to Soldiers. But the issue is that you must be a Soldier at the time. I have seen this and the irony of the whole situation is that Marines usually don't want patches or insignias.

Response by LtCol Jack Chase made Apr 21 at 2019 6:55 PM

2019-04-21T18:55:01-04:00

The Marine Corps does not have a combat deployment "patch". The Marine Corps does have the Combat Action Ribbon. If you earned it, it will be in your service record and your original DD214. If the Marine Corps did not award it to you and you think you earned it, you can appeal to the Marine Corps for reconsideration. Like the Army CIB, it has specific requirements for earning it, e.g. engaged in close small arms combat with enemy combatants. If you earned the CAR, you wear it on your ribbon bar. Likewise if you earned a Sea Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal or Overseas Deployment Medal: those are specific awards that were earned and awarded.

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Apr 22 at 2019 8:45 AM

2019-04-22T08:45:43-04:00

I can't imagine why this subject is important to so many of you. Marines don't wear combat patches. SEALS don't wear combat patches. That's good enough for me.

Response by SSG Ed Hover made Apr 26 at 2019 6:44 PM

2019-04-26T18:44:56-04:00

One of my Drill Sergeants wore 1st Marine Div (vietnam)combat patch in 1982.

Response by Sgt Mervyn Russell made Apr 28 at 2019 12:29 PM

2019-04-28T12:29:16-04:00

Marines don't wear combat patches, not unless they've changed in the past 50 years. So why would you want to wear a Marine unit combat
patch on an Army uniform?

Response by SGT Rich Levesque made May 5 at 2019 10:02 AM

2019-05-05T10:02:54-04:00

Back during the bad old days in Vietnam, Marines with prior combat service were authorized to wear that patch on the right shoulder, and rightfully so. Well earned.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2019 11:17 PM

2019-05-12T23:17:09-04:00

My understanding the combat patch, can only be worn when forward deployed

Response by SFC Joh Williams made May 13 at 2019 2:11 AM

2019-05-13T02:11:59-04:00

Yes. A marine combat patch may be worn

Response by CWO2 William Bowen made May 13 at 2019 10:25 PM

2019-05-13T22:25:15-04:00

Really a Warrant Officer 3 is going to be disrespectful because a Soldier wants to wear a Marine patch! If you were under a Marine Command as a soldier you may wear their patch!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2019 10:44 PM

2019-05-19T22:44:40-04:00

i believe yes you can You transfer from Military service to another one. Its in your orders

Response by COL Tom Downey made May 27 at 2019 9:14 AM

2019-05-27T09:14:39-04:00

The answer is no. Read the reg. In fact, there is only one Marine patch authorized (1MARDIVE) as the SSIFWTS and it was for a sliver in time in 2003 and very specific circumstances (and even then no Marine is authorized the patch for that time!). Since the first Iraq deployment, they tightened the regs, the old reg was in effect and still valid today. The Marines did away with unit patches in Vietnam, and some of those "patches" for 1MEF, etc. are just elaborate logos. It sucks to be a combat vet, but not have the ability to wear a patch, but some of the Marine awards are still valid on dress uniforms, as well as the higher awards (Bronze/Silver Star). If you are judged simply based on appearance, it's a shame, but those who know or get to know you all know the truth. Since around 2005, the reg is even very specific about the award: 1 patch per deployment, period. So if you are in a smaller >BN unit (a BN HHC counts as a BN). you wear the higher unit's patch. There is no "30 day rule" nor do you get to choose. And, if your parent unit ripped out after a few weeks, it doesn't matter, that is the patch you earned. You don't get to wear the patch of the incoming parent unit. Once again, read the reg. It doesn't matter what you think should be right, the reg speaks for itself. No letters from GOs from the Marines can change the reg or give you dispensation. Very rarely will anyone challenge the patch you wear, but be ready at a Dining In to defend it if it's on your blues! A good Sr. NCO should be counseling Soldiers on the proper wearing of the patch. I know personally of an officer I knew whose father was a Marine 3-star, and his dad saw an Army Soldier with an unauthorized patch and he ordered the Soldier to remove it.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2019 2:35 PM

2019-06-16T14:35:30-04:00

Unless you have a 1SG or CSM that's a douchecanoe, nobody says anything about a former Marine wearing the Combat Patch of their former unit.

Response by Cpl Geoff Smith made Jun 17 at 2019 5:11 PM

2019-06-17T17:11:40-04:00

Don't recall Marines wearing patches in their uniforms since WWII, ( Division or Wing patches only).

Response by SGT Christopher Melton made Jun 18 at 2019 2:07 AM

2019-06-18T02:07:18-04:00

You are authorized to wear the Marine patch as a combat patch , I had friends in the 101st who were former Marines and served with 1st Mar DiV in combat and they wore the patch as combat patch on Army uniform

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2019 11:44 AM

2019-06-18T11:44:44-04:00

I wear it anyway. Guadalcanal, Raah

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2019 11:55 AM

2019-06-19T11:55:29-04:00

Sir, I switched over from the Marines to the Army in 2012 after serving 9 years as an 0311. Within the first 3 months I was in the Army I had an ASU inspection. I looked over the reg thoroughly and saw 2 things that stood out to me as odd.

1.) Former Marines are not authorized to wear a Combat patch/ distinctive unit insignia (DUI) if their deployments were under the Marines at that time. However, if a Soldier was attached to the Marine unit during the same period, they are authorized to wear it.

2.) The Army Service Ribbon (ASR) is not authorized for wear for former Marines for 6 months since we didn’t graduate from Army basic training.

So I showed up in uniform and abided by the regulations. Immediately I looked out of place for not wearing the ASR and DUI as I had deployed 4 times to Iraq and Afghanistan in the USMC. My 1SG told me to wear them cause I’d receive more questions on why I wasn’t wearing them than if I were to wear them.

Since then, I wear a 1st MARDIV DUI and Combat Patch. I’ve been asked maybe 3 times since I’ve been in the Army (7 years now) about wearing it. On one particular instance, a SGM was inquiring about it and why I wore it even though I knew not to wear it. I told him that I served and bled with a lot of brothers in Fallujah during Phantom Fury and I wear it to honor them (my BN lost 51). It was a good conversation and he understood why I wear it.

The fact is, it’s against Army regs. Even though we may not agree with it, it’s still against the regs to do so. Whether you wear it or not, you’re going to get questions on your choice. So the question is, which one are you going to choose?

Response by SSG Matt Murphy made Jun 20 at 2019 12:43 AM

2019-06-20T00:43:58-04:00

Wore a UA FEAF patch on my field jacket while with the 11th SFG - should have been the 7th AF patch but I like the FEAF patch more.....as we say in Australia (have lived there for 20+ years; no worries....(having a few sticks of TNT in my hand may have been more of an issue at the time of this photo....)

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2019 7:30 AM

2019-06-20T07:30:55-04:00

If that's what keeps you up at night then maybe you shouldn't be a Platoon Leader especially in an Infantry unit. ~ "OUT"

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2019 7:01 AM

2019-06-21T07:01:28-04:00

Regardless of the so called "regulatory " standards, ie; AR 670-1 dash whatever that everyone tries to spout, In all my 33 years of service in the ARMY, I have never experienced an command issue with former Marines being allowed to wear their DUI (1st, 3rd, etc) Marine patch on their right shoulder of the Army uniform to denote COMBAT SERVICE Any Commander who would not accept this honor for ALL Combat Veterans is a fool and not worthy of leading soldiers (My opinion only) Let them have pride in their service as VETERANS no matter the component they served in in combat areas. We are ALL BROTHERS IN ARMS

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2019 7:05 AM

2019-06-21T07:05:17-04:00

Sir; If you served in a Combat Area as a Marine then turned Army, I see no issue with you parading your Marine DUI on your right shoulder, In my 33 years of service in the ARMY I no of no command who did not allow this , Sir if I were you I would sew it on and to hell with whom ever says different (just my humble opinion)

Response by SPC Zam Iel made Jun 21 at 2019 2:02 PM

2019-06-21T14:02:40-04:00

If you were that concerned with wearing a Marine "patch" (still scratching my head on that one). Why did you leave?? Lets dumb this down... You are a former baseball player crying about not being able to wear part of your baseball gear when you joined the NFL. Is that why you serve? To show off your pretty ribbons and bows?

Response by SFC Bobby Bugg made Jun 22 at 2019 5:35 PM

2019-06-22T17:35:30-04:00

I had a Plt Sgt who wore a 3rd Marine combat patch from Vietnam

Response by Cpl Yancy Brown made Jun 23 at 2019 2:24 AM

2019-06-23T02:24:47-04:00

No such thing as former MARINES. As for wearing a patch for combat, I guess the more stuff the ARMY puts on their uniform the better they feel about being second best.

Response by SSG Richard Hackwith made Jun 24 at 2019 4:28 PM

2019-06-24T16:28:25-04:00

The answer is NO! The USMC did away with patches in 1947. so you don't have a unit patch.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 24 at 2019 9:02 PM

2019-06-24T21:02:27-04:00

AR 670-1 and DA Pam 670-1 states NO. If you deployed in the Corps and then transferred to the Army, you will look like a slick sleeve until you deploy with the Army. As a prior Marine I never agreed with this regulation. However, being a Senior NCO it is my job to uphold and enforce standards and discipline. I've corrected many prior Marines on this regulation. It is what it is, salute and execute Troop.

Response by 1LT Patrick McCarthy made Jun 26 at 2019 8:49 PM

2019-06-26T20:49:00-04:00

We did not have these problems when I was deployed. A Huey delivered a pile of fatigues and you grabbed whatever fit. There was no rank or insignia. Two or three weeks later you got another delivery. It was simple.

Response by PO1 Steve Mitchell made Jul 18 at 2019 4:25 PM

2019-07-18T16:25:28-04:00

So, does this mean that if I was in combat with my Navy ship and went back to the Army, I can wear my ships patch as my Army Combat patch?

Response by 1stLt Matthew Hicks made Jul 19 at 2019 9:40 AM

2019-07-19T09:40:37-04:00

I remember a NYNG guard member who had been USMC during Desert Storm who wore 1st MARDIV patch on left shoulder. When I questioned him about it, he told me that his CO in the NG told him he was required to wear it as it was a combat tour

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Jul 21 at 2019 3:31 PM

2019-07-21T15:31:57-04:00

You were deployed to the MARINES for a time. During that time you wore the unit patch. That was so you wouldn't be considered "foreign" personnel. Meaning you are temporarily attached to the MARINES for a period of time. My brotherand some friends in USAF deployed with the ARMY because of their AFSC (MOS). They wore ARMY unit patches to identify them as being assigned to tthe unit during their deployment. But once they were reassigned back to their parent service, the patches came off. As for permmenate wearing of those patches, more than likely you'll wear the parent service patches only. No use getting the brass bent outta shape, unless you want to.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2019 2:29 AM

2019-07-22T02:29:03-04:00

My unit (1AD 1BCT) has orders authorizing us to wear I MEF combat patch. So yes.

Response by PO2 Robert Moore made Jul 23 at 2019 9:51 AM

2019-07-23T09:51:09-04:00

Oy Vey!! A friend of mine from England once quipped how many patches and awards our military wear. compared to their counterparts. It's an amazing comparison.
I believe all uniform accessories are covered by regulations.
That doesn't mean all commands (or those in charge) follow those. Leads to confusion.

Response by Arsenio Ibay made Jul 23 at 2019 7:24 PM

2019-07-23T19:24:34-04:00

“Because Army”

Response by SFC Mark Klaers made Jul 25 at 2019 10:07 AM

2019-07-25T10:07:01-04:00

I don't understand the problem. You fought, you have the supporting paperwork, you should wear the patch. I'm good with you getting to wear a foreign units patch as long as it legit.

Response by SFC Mark Klaers made Jul 25 at 2019 10:10 AM

2019-07-25T10:10:57-04:00

I can't see the problem. If you fought and have the supporting documentation, you should get to wear the patch. And not just Marine Corps units, but foreign as well. If you differently, then get those foreign jump wings off!

Response by SFC Mark Klaers made Jul 25 at 2019 10:11 AM

2019-07-25T10:11:06-04:00

I can't see the problem. If you fought and have the supporting documentation, you should get to wear the patch. And not just Marine Corps units, but foreign as well. If you feel
differently, then get those foreign jump wings off!

Response by CPT(P) David Thorp made Jul 26 at 2019 3:39 AM

2019-07-26T03:39:34-04:00

This rule is shallow and discriminatory and anyone who gets their panties in a bunch over a WAR VETERAN who just happened to deploy with the Marines instead of the Army, really needs to take a look in the mirror and figure out what it is they are really angry about. It's petty bullshit and we all know it.

Ive heard people try to patronize and say "Oh I don't like it either but the reg is the reg...". PLEASE..if you just hate someone for being a Marine because you weren't or whatever reason, then just own it and stop hiding behind the reg.. otherwise I dunno perhaps STFU and worry about what is on your own damn shoulder?

Response by SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. made Jul 27 at 2019 12:22 AM

2019-07-27T00:22:15-04:00

Same thing happened to me. I was Marine Corps Ssgt and joined Army in 77. Could not wear Marine Corps Weapons qual but could wear my Combat Air Crew Badge and Gold jump wings. Go figure. At least my time in service and grade and overseas time counted. Army sent me to Walter Reed as a clerk. Had been in Marine rifleman and then aircraft crew member. So was made a specialist. 2 weeks later was back to wearing stripes. till retirement. Then to Grad school.

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Aug 12 at 2019 10:24 AM

2019-08-12T10:24:46-04:00

Dept. of the Army personnel working in the "Not" square building in Arlington Va. with nothing better to do than write confusing uniform regulations need tighter supervision while they're on the clock.

Response by LTC John Wilson made Aug 13 at 2019 9:39 PM

2019-08-13T21:39:34-04:00

No is the correct answer!

Response by SFC John Fourquet made Aug 16 at 2019 3:22 PM

2019-08-16T15:22:36-04:00

If the marines wear combat patches I would say yes. Since the Marines fo not wear combat patches I say policy is right and you cannot wear your marine unit patch on your army uniform.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Sep 2 at 2019 1:17 PM

2019-09-02T13:17:36-04:00

What POLICY? During my time in the Army, I met Soldiers who deployed with Marines, or were Marines who deployed to Desert Storm, and later went into the Army. If the Marine unit had a patch, they were able to wear it as a Combat Patch. Unless AR 670-1 changed After I retired in 2008, This should NOT BE AN ISSUE.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Mar 21 at 2020 8:14 AM

2020-03-21T08:14:06-04:00

Personally, I think the Army wears way too much stuff on their uniforms. Wasn’t the most important reason, by any means, but it was one reason why I chose the Corps all those years ago.

Response by SGT Roger Sharpnack made May 16 at 2020 3:26 PM

2020-05-16T15:26:30-04:00

My nephew cant wear his CIB on his Air Force uniforms after switching services.

Response by SGT Roger Sharpnack made May 16 at 2020 3:29 PM

2020-05-16T15:29:00-04:00

My nephew changed services to the Air Force from the Army and cannot wear his CIB

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2020 4:04 PM

2020-07-15T16:04:11-04:00

Unfortunately, the only correct answer is no.

(3) “Other services. The Department of the Navy, the United States Marine Corps (USMC), and the Air Force do not authorize wear of SSI. Therefore, personnel who served in one of the designated areas during one of the specified periods, but who were not members of the U.S. Army, are not authorized to wear the SSI FWTS on their right shoulder. The only exception to this policy is for U.S. Army members who served with the USMC during World War II from 15 March 1943 through 2 September 1946.”

You may not agree with it but this is the answer until the army changes it.

Response by SFC Michael Garutti made Mar 3 at 2021 8:01 PM

2021-03-03T20:01:50-05:00

Were you just under their operational control (OPCOM) or did their commander request your unit be awarded the patch to wear as your "combat patch" to the ARMY G-1?
If you don't have that from the Army G-1 then no.
I have one awarding 3-69, 3ID the 2 MEF (FWD) patch for Ramadi in '07.