The Fleet Marine Force (FMF) Chaplain belt buckle is authorized for wear by Chaplains who have passed a specialized version of the Fleet Marine Warfare Officer qualification. Designated as FMF Qualified Officers, they are not required them to complete nearly a dozen Personnel Qualification Standards (PQS) related to weaponry and combat because they are not allowed bear arms and are considered non-combatants. However, they must score at least 80 percent on a written examination and pass an oral examination conducted by board of at least three (with at least one Marine) officers that indicates that have acquired additional general knowledge that improves their understanding and role in mission effectiveness, warfighting, and command survivability.
There FMF Chaplain buckle is gold, reflecting the fact that only Officers may serve as Chaplains, and features the FMF Chaplain insignia; it is identical to the Fleet Marine Force Warfare Insignia except it does not have crossed rifles behind the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem.
Gold buckles are authorized for wear by male Officers with the Full Dress Blue, Dinner Dress Blue/White, Service Dress Blue/White, and Summer White/Khaki uniforms. Female officers wear gold buckles only on the Summer White and Summer Khaki uniforms.