Royal Marines Badge

Requirements
Today, earning the Royal Marines Badge requires candidates to overcome one of the toughest selection regimes in the world. Prospective Marines must complete a series of rigorous physical, mental, and tactical tests—including the famously challenging Commando Selection—before finishing the intense training course of 32 weeks at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM) at Lympstone.

A record from 1961 shows that a group of French civilians received the badge and corresponding certificate for helping RM commandos aiding in their escape from France after Operation Frankton.

Variants
There are numerous versions of this badge, including differences between officer badges and lower-rank badges, and ceremonial badges. Officers’ badges are often produced in two parts in silver.

Design
This badge design was solidified following the amalgamation of the Royal Marine Light Infantry and the Royal Marine Artillery in 1923.

a. The Lion and Crown
At the crest of the badge, the lion—and by extension its crown—is a time-honoured emblem of royal authority and courage. The lion signifies strength and valor, while the crown underscores the Corps’ official “Royal” designation. This element has remained central to the badge since the early 19th century, symbolizing loyalty to the British monarchy.

b. The Globe
The globe, typically set beneath the lion, represents the worldwide operational sphere of the Royal Marines. In 1827, when the globe was introduced as part of the new Colours, it signified not only geographic reach but also the Marine’s ability to operate in every conceivable environment—both at sea and on land.

c. The Laurel Wreath
Encircling the globe, the laurel wreath is a traditional symbol of victory and honour. Though its precise origin in the badge’s design is subject to some historical variation, it is generally believed to honor past feats of bravery—most notably, those demonstrated during engagements such as Belle Isle.