Just as in other branches of the Armed Forces of the United States, the Marine Corps uses bullion oak leaves as ornamentation on the visor of its dress caps to distinguish the wearer as a Field Grade (O-4 to O-6) officer. The Field-Grade cap features the same gold-and-scarlet dress chinstrap found on the dress caps for both Company-Grade and General Officers (it is also used on the cap worn by the Commandant of the Marine Corps).
But while the gold bullion on the visor is certainly eye-catching, it is the branch of service insignia mounted on that is the focal point of the cap’s design. The insignia is a replica of the Marine Corps iconic Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem that became the centerpiece of the Corps official seal in 1955, but without the scroll containing the words “Semper Fidelis” in the eagle’s beak. The officer’s version of the branch of service insignia is distinguished by its blend of silver and gold metals; the version worn by enlisted Marines is manufactured entirely in gold. Also, the enlisted version has rope that is wrapped almost completely around the fouled anchor, while the officer’s version is at discrete points.
More Field-Grade Officer Dress Cap Insignia / Accouterments
Officer Dress Cap Insignia
Officer Dress Cap Crown
Officer Dress Cap Chin Strap
Dress Cap Screw Post Buttons
More USMC Officer Insignia / Accouterments
Officer Service Cap Crown
Officer Service Cap Insignia
Service Cap Chin Strap
Service Cap Buttons
Officer Gold Tie Tack
Officer / NCO Cuff Links