Rifles, Crossed

OK, Grove, Headstone Symbols and Meanings, Rifles, Crossed

CROSSED RIFLES -  Crossed rifles are common on military headstones. They are not specific to a branch of military and are used to denote a veteran, usually an officer.  The United States Marine Corps utilizes crossed rifles in two of its uniform markings. The first is in the rank chevrons attached to the uniform sleeves. From Lance Corporal to Master Sergeant, each insignia bears a pair of crossed rifles. The second emblem that uses crossed rifles is the expert rifleman badge.  Upside down crossed rifles are a symbol of mourning, as "the rifle that will not again be fired".

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OK, Grove, Headstone Symbols and Meanings, Crossed Rifles