What does the SSBN Deterrent Patrol Pin signify, and what do the stars indicate?

What does the SSBN Deterrent Patrol Pin signify, and what do the stars indicate?

• A. A badge given to sailors who served on a submarine from wartime.
• B. Awarded for completing strategic deterrent patrols; stars indicate number of patrols.
• C. An insignia for completing combat patrols during WWII.
• D. A badge for first-time submarine dive.

Answer: (B)

The pin is a recognition of completing deterrent patrols on a ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). Deterrent patrols are the at-sea missions where the submarine stays hidden and ready to launch missiles as part of the nuclear deterrent force. The stars on the pin show how many deterrent patrols that sailor has completed—each star represents one patrol. This is different from WWII combat patrol insignia or other submarine badges, which mark different kinds of service or milestones.

The pin is a recognition of completing deterrent patrols on a ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). Deterrent patrols are the at-sea missions where the submarine stays hidden and ready to launch missiles as part of the nuclear deterrent force. The stars on the pin show how many deterrent patrols that sailor has completed—each star represents one patrol. This is different from WWII combat patrol insignia or other submarine badges, which mark different kinds of service or milestones.