Most people know military blazer badges when they see them, simply because they are just about everywhere. Not only are these items worn by people who are currently serving in the military, but they are also worn by veterans and many others. While some might have a good understanding of why these badges are worn – in order to identify certain regiments, among other reasons – there is still a lot that will surprise even the most avid badge enthusiast. Sometimes, the most fascinating things about these badges is not what is etched onto them, but the history behind the formation of these representations.
They have a Rich History
One thing that you might not know about military blazer badges is that they have a long and very rich history. While these badges are fairly new in the capacity that they are being used today, their origins actually stem back much further. Some people say that the history of these badges goes back right to the medieval period when the coat of arms of an official was enough to give him power over the people over which he presided.
At this time, the coat of arms wasn’t restricted to flags and uniforms, as military blazer badges are these days – they could been seen on letters, rings and other items. Just carrying around this coat of arms on an official document could grant a layman power and it is much the same today. In a sense, those wearing these badges have been granted power by the organization that allowed them to wear the badge – sometimes this is the army, while in other instances it might be the police, fire station or even a private organization.
Knights Wore Badges – In a Sense
At one point in time, medieval knights would actually carry around their coat of arms while protecting the people of their land and this is the ancient line of the police badge. The knight would often carry the coat of arms of their lord or the individual they owed allegiance to, and it was under this flag that he got his power.
Why Is It Placed Over The Heart?
Many military blazer badges are worn over the left chest pocket, although this is not always the case. However, the left chest pocket is the most popular place to have military blazer badges sewn because it is believed to be over the heart. This placement is supposed to be a reminder of an individual’s oath that is sworn when he joins the organization, whether this is the army, the police or another division. In many instances, individuals are asked to place their hand over their heart – and therefore over the badge that they will one day wear – while swearing their oath.
They Have Evolved Over Time
The military blazer badges that can be seen throughout the world today did not always look like that. Many years ago, badges were not deemed necessary because armies fought under flags and banners, and these had the same effect as badges do today – they informed the opposing army of who they were fighting, for whom and in some instances, even included the rankings of these individuals.
Over time, the badges began to evolve and include certain signifiers, such as the specific level of the army to which the individual belonged, as well as whether or not they were part of an elite group. These changes were sometimes slow and sometimes occurred just about overnight, but they were always altered with purpose.
A lot of effort goes into creating family crests and flags and just as much has gone into the formation of military blazer badges. Some badges are ornate and complex, while others are simple and straightforward. A badge can tell a person a lot about the organization that is represents and so it makes for some fascinating studies.
While you might think you know a lot about military blazer badges, there is always something new to learn. These badges have been around for many years and they will remain for the foreseeable future. The badges will constantly change and evolve, as they have for years and this means that you can never know enough about them.