A joint Army-Navy agreement of November 9, 1944 adopted the Honorable Discharge Emblem for wear by all honorably
discharged personnel of the United States Armed Forces. This emblem was to be permanently affixed on discharge above the right
front pocket of all outer uniform clothing. A commissioned officer was charged with inspecting the discharged individual
to varify that the emblem was properly displayed. Discharged members of the Armed Forces were allowed to wear their uniforms home
but not in excess of 90 days. The design of the emblem was based on a lapel pin issued for wear on civilian clothing since
prior to the outbreak of the war. The emblem received the nick name "The Ruptured Duck" from the soldiers.
CIRCULAR
NO 454
WAR DEPARTMENT
Washington 25, D.C.,29 November
1944
Effective until 29 May 1946 unless sooner rescinded or superseded
EXTRACT
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III-EMBLEM
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4- How and when worn.--At the time of honorable discharge or separation
from the service this emblem will be permanently affixed (preferably sewed) on the
right breast of all the outer clothing centered immediately above the pocket or in
that approximate position if the outer garment has no breast pocket, with the long
axis of the lozenge horizontal. Any decoration, badge, or other insignia which
are prescribed or authorized to be worn in this designated position will, when worn
together with the honorable discharge emblem, be placed immediately above the
uppermost part of this emblem. Commanders designated in paragraph 5b will insure
that the honorable discharge emblem is affixed to the uniform of all qualified
personnel during processing and prior to actual discharge or release from the
service.
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BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR
