National Defense Badge of Service Pin

Anthony de Francisci, National Defense Badge of Service Pin, 1925, cast bronze/red and white enamel paste, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Gilda Slate, 1966.110.17
Copied Anthony de Francisci, National Defense Badge of Service Pin, 1925, cast bronze/red and white enamel paste, 1⁄2 x 5⁄8 in. (1.2 x 1.7 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Gilda Slate, 1966.110.17

Artwork Details

Title
National Defense Badge of Service Pin
Artist
Date
1925
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
1⁄2 x 5⁄8 in. (1.2 x 1.7 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Gilda Slate
Mediums
Mediums Description
cast bronze/red and white enamel paste
Classifications
Subjects
  • Emblem — military insignia
  • Animal — bird — eagle
Object Number
1966.110.17
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1966.110.17

Artwork Description

Anthony de Francisci designed this original National Defense service pin in 1925. The design was modified slightly in 1943, and by general orders the Army allowed it to be worn by any veteran of World War II. To many veterans, the bald eagle was known as the “ruptured duck.” The nickname referred to the phrase “took off like a ruptured duck,” which described the soldiers who were honorably discharged and eager to return to civilian life.