THE AVIATION BOATSWAIN’S MATE INSIGNIA 

The Meaning Behind Our Insignia

Our insignia—crossed anchors with wings—has symbolized gallantry, dedication, and unwavering commitmentfor nearly fifty years. Many exceptional Aviation Boatswain’s Mates (ABs) have sacrificed limbs and, in too many cases, their lives while performing the demanding and dangerous tasks of the flight deck.

Let’s break down the meaning behind this emblem and put it into perspective.

The Anchors: Strength in Unity

An anchor is a powerful device used to secure a sea-going vessel to a specific location. In the same way, a well-trained AB is an anchor—holding their position, securing aircraft, fueling and defueling, directing aircraft around the deck, salvaging damaged planes, setting arresting gear, and launching aircraft from catapults.

Our insignia features two crossed anchors, reminding us that we do not work alone. Flight deck operations require trust, teamwork, and unity. Like a symphony orchestra, each AB plays a vital role in the marvelous spectacle of carrier air operations.

We see each other at our best and our worst. We train, test, and push one another, and though it may go unsaid, we share an unbreakable bond—one forged in friendship, respect, and the shared experience of life on the deck.

The Wings: A Tribute to Sacrifice

At first glance, wings on an anchor seem unnecessary—but when you think about it, it would take incredible strength to lift such weight into the sky.

ABs carry that weight every day. They bear the burdens of duty, sacrifice, and responsibility with resilience and determination. No matter the cost, they get the job done.

And yet, the sacrifices are many.

There’s an old saying: “Whenever a bell chimes, an angel gets its wings.” In the Navy, when the ship’s bell sounds, it marks the moment another AB has given their time, skill, and sacrifice to earn their wings.

Our wings do not simply symbolize flight—they signify honor, sacrifice, and a place earned in the heavens.

ABMA Logo

ABMA Trademark: As of January 2006 the ABMA Logo is a registered trademark, registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office with the serial number of 78501064.  Anyone wanting to use the ABMA Logo, other than the ABMA, will be required to submit a request to the President of the ABMA to receive a “Letter of Approval to Use the Registered Trademark of The ABMA”. This approval is only authorized by the ABMA Board of Directors (BOD).