Vice Admiral Joe Leidig, U.S. Africa Command's deputy to the commander for military operations, presented 28 newly-certified AFRICOM Navy officers with the Information Dominance Corps (IDC) insignia on Wednesday, December 15, 2010, at the Kelley Theater. This award is one of the newest warfare designators.
The IDC is a cadre of information professionals in information, intelligence, counterintelligence, human-derived information, networks, space and oceanographic disciplines. "The corps was created to better lead and manage a cadre of officers, enlisted and civilian professionals who possess extensive skills in information-intensive fields," according to Admiral Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations.
"This idea of having a warfare pin that recognizes the specific qualifications and professional standards that had to be met is one that has a 100 year history in our Navy. I'm glad that our Navy has recognized this warfare era of information dominance as one that should have a badge and wear a qualification badge." said Leidig.
Although the chief of naval operations approved the IDC insignia in February 2010, this is the first pin for AFRICOM as the Navy IDC Community did not allow anyone to start the qualifying procedures until October 1, 2010. Each recipient had to complete a two part course, which normally takes two years to complete, in order to meet the qualification criteria. The qualifications are different depending on one's designator and rank.
"For me, this pin means a lot. Normally, unless you are on an aircraft carrier or a ship you will not have the opportunity to earn a warfare pin in the Navy. It is an honor to be part of history." Lt. Theresa Adair said.
The officer insignia is a two and three-quarter inches by one and one-eighth inches, gold matte metal pin showing a background of ocean waves, a crossed naval officer's sword and lightning bolt with a fouled (chain wrapped around) anchor and globe.