Originally Posted by
pettinger93
The outrage about wrongly worn badges also extends to submariners in the Royal Navy. The 'dolphin' badge awarded to those who have qualified as such is highly regarded in the RN, as its a long and arduous process to earn one. Some, though not all, get quite upset when its worn as by those not entitled, even as jewellery. However, I am told that, in real life, the RN does sell extra ones to any submariner, and many of which end up being worn by wives and girlfriends, as they are quite decorative. I seem to remember the Duchess of Cambridge has been seen wearing one.
I think there is a case for 'wife of' wearing a badge though in the RAF wives generally have a silver or gold miniature, and RFC before that. Problem for the Dolphin is it is attractive as it is.
Before women became submariners or aircrew you knew what they were, and given the risk of their spouse's job, and deserved such recognition.