This 1944 U.S.N. Rate Patch Q Crypto (Intelligence)
badge is from "Collectors Guide/Price List to US Navy Rating Badges" 1992
by H.J. Saunders It was used for the Cryptologist, Cryptanalyst,
and related fields. (Photo and copy courtesy of <badgesareus>
, Texas).
Now... for the obvious question - why would the crypto branch want
to have this particular trade advertised, especially during wartime?
DESCRIPTION: On a disc per bend wavy, checky of six (6) black and
white, and Air Force blue, an Air Force golden yellow sine wave between
a key bendwise surmounted by a torch, palewise, Air Force golden yellow,
the torch flamed red and an atomic symbol of three white orbits, fimbriated
red, encircling a red nucleus; issuing from the atomic symbol four (4)
Air Force golden yellow lightning flashes, two to dexter (right) chief,
two to sinister (left) base; all within a narrow border, Air Force
golden yellow; outlines and details golden brown.
SIGNIFICANCE: The emblem is symbolic of the squadron and its mission.
Against a background of black and white checkerboard blocks to indicate
night and day training, a key represents security, and a torch represents
knowledge. Against a background of deep blue, an atomic symbol indicates
electronic theory, and lightning bolts signify communication. The
six checkerboard blocks represent the six functions of the unit, administration,
operator training, ciphony training, encrypted teletype training, data
fax training, and fundamental and basis training. The emblem bears
the Air Force colors, ultramarine blue and golden yellow, and the national
colors, red, white, and blue.
HISTORY: The 3276 Student Squadron was organized 21 Aug 57 at Lackland
AFB, Texas. It was redesignated the 3276 School Squadron. Submitted
by: Doug Eyre
