US Army Gilder Qualification Badge

The US Army Glider Qualification Badge is a highly esteemed military decoration awarded to Army personnel who have successfully undergone extensive training and demonstrated exceptional skills in glider operations. This unique badge features a glider, signifying silent and undetected infiltration, suspended from a wreath. It was first introduced during World War II to recognize the specialized training of soldiers who served in glider units. These soldiers typically participated in airborne operations, stealthily delivering troops and equipment into battle zones. The badge is not only a symbol of honor and prestige, but also a testament to the wearer’s courage, dedication, and mastery in handling non-powered military gliders. Despite not being currently awarded as the US Army no longer maintains glider units, it remains a significant part of military history.