Texas Star,

Yes I am currently in the Air Force. One gets their badge issued at the completion of tech school however, if it is lost or damaged etc one can draw a new one from supply. The number is pretty much for accountability and not used in reports or given out etc. Also the metal badge is only worn in blues. The ABU/BDU badge is an embroidered patch that is sewn on so detail is not that sharp. We don't wear blues that often. Working flight and with deployments I only wear my blues and my badge maybe 10 times a year.

I would rather be issued the Model 15 over the M9.