Military Pins: 6 Things You Need to Know

American military pins carry a wealth of meaning and shouldn't be viewed simply as decorative ornaments. For many military enthusiasts, each pin holds a story; they are living, breathing objects, and collecting or exchanging them has become a cultural endeavor. There are 4 main meanings of the pins.

The development of American military pins can be traced back to the founding of the United States, evolving over several centuries to the present day. We will detail this development in chronological order.

1. Military pins during wars in the 18th century

Before the Revolutionary War, the military had no standardized uniforms or pins. With the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, the military needed to distinguish between different ranks, and the predecessor of the pin—the ribbon—came into use. 

Soldiers wore different colored ribbons or ribbons on their chests to distinguish their ranks and branches of service. The ribbons of this period were the equivalent of the pins that later appeared.

2. Military pins in the 19th century

With the increase in military activities, various military rules and regulations became more sophisticated. The military pin emerged as a more stable and durable identification tool, replacing the ribbon as a badge of identity. 

With the development of the 19th century, its status in the military gradually solidified, and it was awarded to soldiers as a medal. 

3. Military pins during World Wars I and II in the 20th century

The expansion of the U.S. military during World Wars I and II in the 20th Century broadened the use of pins, leading to the emergence of numerous types of military pins, such as pilot pins. 

More and more military personnel began wearing military pins, and various medal pins emerged. During this period, pins evolved from simple identification tags to symbols of honor.

4. Applications of military pins in the 21st century

In the 21st Century, the use of pins became specialized, with specialized pins being developed—veteran pins, anniversary pins, and a wide range of pins for various military branches.

 At the same time, military pin culture gained widespread popularity, and the community of military pin collectors grew significantly.

There are 5 main types of military pins, each with different functions.

The paths to obtaining military pins vary for both military personnel and non-military personnel. For military personnel, there are 3 main ways to obtain military pins:

1. Passing assessments and completing missions: Through personal effort, completing missions and assessments, you can earn the corresponding pins according to military regulations.

2. Promotion in military rank: Different military ranks carry different pins, so military pins can be earned through advancement in the military hierarchy.

3. Purchasing through official channels: Military organizations often have official channels for soldiers to purchase pins. Through these online military stores, you can obtain military pins of various designs.

For non-military enthusiasts, there are 3 ways to obtain military pins:

1. Online Purchase: Many historical military pins are sold online. Simply visit the appropriate channels, find the pin you like, and place your order.

2. Offline enthusiast gatherings, exchanges, and events: These gatherings bring together many military pin enthusiasts, who can collect and acquire their favorite pins through pin exchanges. In addition, you can participate in some military commemorative activities and have the opportunity to obtain commemorative badges. 

3. Customization in online stores: Currently, many custom pin manufacturers will customize military pins for government agencies and military organizations. As an ordinary enthusiast, you can also choose such manufacturers to create military pins of your own design.

Wearing a military pin correctly is not just about aesthetics, but also about complying with military regulations. Also, each military pin has its own specific function and wearing position, so it is crucial to follow the correct wearing rules. 

The significance of a military pin goes far beyond that of an ordinary pin. Within military organizations and among the general public, it serves as a spiritual symbol, guiding people forward. The pride a soldier feels in wearing it strengthens loyalty and boosts morale. Through pins, society enhances public recognition of the military, fostering unity and focusing attention. 

In the current era of pin development, the military pin has always held a significant position, and this status and influence will endure, further connecting military service with social causes.