Approved in 2019, the U.S. Air Force Munitions Badge is an Occupational Badge worn by Enlisted Airmen in Air Force Specialty Code 2W0, Munitions Systems and Officers in 21M, Munitions and Missile Maintenance. In its center is the heraldic shield which also signifies the advanced stockpile of conventional weapons in the United States arsenal that acts as a deterrent that forestalls possible enemy attacks.
The “shell and flame” in the center of the heraldic shield is intimately associated with the Ordnance profession across all branches of military service and is seen as far back in history as 1802 when it was used for Spanish artillery. It serves as the Army’s Ordnance branch insignia, and a winged version is used by the Navy for its Aviation Ordnanceman rating. Here, it reminds wearers that they are custodians and guardians of the USAF arsenal that is ready and available for national defense at all times.
Surrounding the shield is an olive wreath that symbolizes the ultimate reward of this unique profession: the peace that results from defending the United States.
Three are three variations of the Munitions Badge: Basic, Senior, and Master. Senior Badges add a star serving as a crest atop the heraldic shield, and the Master Badge includes both the star and an encircling laurel wreath, traditional heraldic symbol of excellence and achievement.