Master: A silver diving helmet 7/8 inch (2.22 cm) in height in front of a trident 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in height between two dolphins. The width is 1 3/32 inches (2.78 cm).
Symbolism
Special Operations Diver Badge
The diver is wearing a low volume mask, typical of combat diving operations and mouthpiece with inhalation/exhalation hose of a stealth rebreather. The daggers recall the heritage of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) operational swimmers of World War II. The shark represents stealth, speed, power and efficiency in dispatching its prey.
Special Operations Diving Supervisor Badge
The diver is wearing a low volume mask, typical of combat diving operations and mouthpiece with inhalation/exhalation hose of a stealth rebreather. The daggers recall the heritage of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) operational swimmers of World War II. The shark represents stealth, speed, power and efficiency in dispatching its prey. The star and laurel wreath represent the Special Operations Diving Supervisor Badge qualification level.
Salvage
The diver’s helmet is the basic equipment and the letter “S” is superimposed on the design to reflect salvage activities such as harbor clearance, rock and concrete blasting, steel and timber removal and the removal of propellers for replacement.
Second Class
The diver’s helmet is the basic equipment used in diving operations.
First Class
The badge includes the design of the diver’s helmet to reflect diving operations and includes the dolphins to suggest the function of diving, without the helmet required of a deep sea diver.
Master
The trident is added to the design of the First Class badge which is symbolic of a marine spearhead and stands for valor and strength.
Award Eligibility
The requirements for each award are contained in AR 611-75. Several progressive requirements to attain each level of qualification have been established.
Date Approved
The Second Class, Salvage, First Class and Master Diver Badges were approved on 15 February 1944. On 17 September 2004, the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1 approved changes to the Army Scuba Diver Badge. The Scuba Diver Badge was renamed the Special Operations Diver Badge with a new design approved and an additional skill level, the Special Operations Diving Supervisor Badge, was created.
Subdued Badge
Subdued badges are authorized in flat black metal finishes.
Miniature Badges
Dress miniature badges are authorized in the following sizes:
a. Diver and Diving Supervisor: 11/16 inch (1.75 cm)
b. Salvage: 7/16 inch (1.11 cm)
c. Second Class: 7/16 inch (1.11 cm)
d. First Class: 11/16 inch (1.75 cm)
e. Master: 11/16 inch (1.75 cm)