Description
Within an oval silver metal wreath of laurel, 2-1/4 inches in height and 2 inches in width overall, the shield of the United States (the chief in blue enamel and the 13 stripes alternating white and red enamel) superimposed on four gold metal unsheathed swords, two in pale and two in saltire with points to chief, the points and pommels resting on the wreath, the blades and grips entwined with a gold metal continuous scroll surrounding the shield with the word JOINT at the top and the words CHIEFS OF STAFF at the bottom, all in blue enamel letters.
Symbolism
Laurel is symbolic of achievement, courage, and victory. The four unsheathed swords refer to the armed might of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps and their combined constant vigilance and readiness in the defense of the United States.
Award Eligibility
Criteria for the award of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) Identification Badge are established by JCS Memorandum of Policy (MOP) 142.
Date Approved
Proposed designs were prepared by The Institute of Heraldry and submitted to the Joint Chiefs of Staff on February 21, 1963. On April 2, 1963, the JCS approved a Memorandum of Policy, which established the JCS Identification Badge.