Dolphins

Dolphins, the insignia of the United States Navy Submarine Service, identify the wearer as "Qualified in Submarines." This designation requires months of intensive effort to master the intricacies of the submarine's construction and operation. Officer Dolphins are gold, while Enlisted Dolphins are silver.

The submarine insignia, adopted in March 1924, is a bow view of a submarine proceeding on the surface with bow planes rigged for diving, flanked by dolphins in horizontal position with their heads resting on the upper edge of the bow planes. The dolphins on this insignia are symbolic of a calm sea and are the traditional attendants of Poseidon, Greek god of the sea.

In more recent times, dolphins for specialist officers in the Submarine Force have been developed. These include the Engineering Duty Officer, Medical Officer and Supply Corps Dolphins.

Regardless of the color of the pin or the insignia at the center, dolphins are worn with pride by members of the Submarine Force.

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