Jerry Basham
Promoted In Vietnam
There is one Army badge that only combat infantrymen can wear -- the Combat Infantry Badge. It was awarded to specialist four Jerry Basham near Duc Co, Vietnam, Oct. 28.Spec. Basham, 20, son of Mrs. Paulene Basham, 102 E. Main, Lowell, was also promoted to his present rank at that time. He is assigned as a rifleman with the 4th Infantry Division.
The Combat Infantryman Badge has been awarded since late in World War II for sustained ground contact against an enemy. It is not awarded to members of other combat arms, such as artillery, armor or engineers.
In honor of its singular meaning, the badge is worn above all other awards and decorations, over the left breast. It is a blue rectangle with a silver rifle mounted on it and a curved wreath at the top. Subsequent awards are represented by stars in the center of the wreath.
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