The Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) is a US Military Decoration established November 15th 1943 and awarded to infantrymen (including special forces) of the rank of Colonel or below who had served and fought in combat from December 6th 1941. Awarded at the same time was the Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB) which is awarded to any soldier who must have completed and passed a number of tests on basic infantry skills.
Both these awards were driven by the need to reward the soldier with recognition for their demonstration of proficiency and high standards of aggressiveness in the field of combat. In February 1952 additional stars were added to those personnel who had fought in other theatres of war following WW2. This included Korea, Vietnam and the War on Terror. Most 2 star awards would indicate a WW2, Korean war or Vietnam War veteran due to the time difference between 1953 and 2001 some 48 years.
The above is an English WW2 period CIB manufactured by Jones & Jason of Birmingham England.
Sterling Silver clutch back version unknown maker.
Single Star clutch back, NS Meyer, New York.
Twin Star clutch back, marked S21 for Harry Sugerman, Antonio, TX.
Subdued clutch back version by Vanguard V21, Norfolk, VA.
The Expert Infantryman Badge, noticeable by its lack of wreath and stars. This version is clutch back and manufactured by NS Meyer, New York.
In 2005 the Combat Action Badge was added to be awarded to soldiers of any rank and who are not members of an infantry, medical or special forces engaged in military combat. For those serving in the medical forces there is the Combat Medical Badge.
Subdued clutch back Combat Action Badge maker marked GI-UT (possible Urschel Tool Corp. Cranston, RI).
Vanguard made clutch back subdued Combat Medical Badge.
From 2019 a skills badge was also added called the Expert Soldier Badge. This is similar to the above but without the wreath and is awarded for competency and various skills.
Williams & Anderson made CIB (clutch back) as attached to a Disabled American Veterans side cap with Purple Heart, Defense Medal and Vietnam Service ribbons with battle star. Paratrooper wings are clutch back made by Krew GI. The DAV cap represents the Memorial Chapter 45, San Luis Obispo, Ca.
An unusual CIB, unknown maker and 1+ 3/16 inches (31mm) pin back. Possible lapel badge.
usmilawards.uk 