An oxidized silver badge 3/4 inch (1.91 cm) in height and 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) in width, consisting of a shield with its field scored with horizontal lines and bearing the Coat of Arms of the United States on and over a pair of displayed wings. A star is added above the shield to indicate the degree of Senior Aviation Badge and the star is surrounded with a laurel wreath to indicate the degree of Master Aviation Badge.
The badge is the same design as that for Army Aviator with the Coat of Arms of the United States substituted for the shield of the Coat of Arms of the United States. The wings suggest flight and reflect the skills associated with aerial flight. The Coat of Arms of the United States on the shield signifies loyalty and devotion to duty.
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.
The Aviation Badge was originally approved as the Aircraft Crew Member Badge by the Deputy Chief of Staff for Military Operations on 16 May 1962. The Deputy Chief of Staff approved the change to the present Aviation Badges on 29 February 2000 retroactive to 1 January 1947 for military personnel.
Subdued badges are authorized in flat black metal finishes.
Dress miniature badges are authorized in the following sizes: Basic Aviation Badge - 21/64 inch (.83 cm) in height and 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in width; Senior Aviation Badge - 13/32 inch (1.03 cm) in height and 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in width; and Master Aviation Badge - 15/32 inch (1.19 cm) in height and 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in width. Miniature badges for the three degrees are authorized in the following sizes: 19/32 inch (1.51 cm) in height and 2 inches (5.08 cm) in width; 11/16 inch (1.75 cm) in height and 2 inches (5.08 cm) in width; and 23/32 inch (1.83 cm) in height and 2 inches (5.08 cm) in width, respectively.