USCG Commandant Instruction: Special Agent Insignia policy

Eda Zenic -

The United States Coast Guard issued Commandant Instruction COMDTINST 5527.4 providing detailed guidelines on how to earn the Special Agent Insignia, a recognition within the U.S. Coast Guard for members of the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS).

Scope and Authorities:

  • This document is intended for all Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, and other relevant personnel who must follow these guidelines.
  • It is advisable for readers to familiarize themselves with related directives including Uniform Regulations (COMDTINST M1020.6 series), Military Qualifications and Insignia (COMDTINST M1200.1 series), and the Coast Guard Officer Specialty Management System Manual (COMDTINST M5300.3 series).

Policy Overview:

  • Special Agent Insignia: Represents CGIS members who uphold the integrity of the Coast Guard through various investigative activities.
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • Active Duty and Civilian Special Agents must complete the Criminal Investigator Training Program or an equivalent, and Special Agent Basic Training or similar accredited law enforcement training.
    • Reserve Special Agents need to graduate from an accredited law enforcement academy and complete the CGIS Reserve Indoctrination Training Program or equivalent.
    • Service Requirement: Must complete five years of satisfactory service as a Coast Guard Special Agent.
    • Certification: Must be certified by an issuing authority.
    • Temporary Entitlement: Available for those who meet all criteria but have not completed five years, allowing temporary wear until transferred from CGIS or the service requirement is met.
    • Retroactive Award: Applies to former Special Agents who meet criteria or were injured/medically separated in the line of duty.

Issuing Authority:

  • The Special Agent Insignia is issued by the Special Agent-In-Charge (SAC) or higher within CGIS. Verification of eligibility and issuance are managed by CGIS Mission Support, with certificates signed by the CGIS Director, Deputy Director, or Assistant Director.

Documentation:

  • The insignia award must be recorded in Direct Access for military members. Civilians receive a certificate to retain as a record of their award. The Special Agent Insignia certificate is available for download from the CGIS SharePoint site.

Insignia Description:

  • Design: A gold rectangular insignia featuring a decorative frame and filigree.
  • Central Elements:
    • A U.S. shield with thirteen stars and stripes, symbolizing protection and the original thirteen U.S. colonies.
    • A horizontally displayed U.S. Revenue Cutter Service sword, symbolizing justice, truth, and strength.
    • A banner at the bottom reading “Special Agent.”
  • Symbolism: The insignia represents the competencies and qualifications of Coast Guard Special Agents.

Distribution and Accessibility:

  • The Instruction is electronically distributed through Coast Guard platforms and follows accessibility standards as set by the U.S. Access Board. Any accessibility issues should be addressed with the Section 508 Program Management Office.

Feedback and Changes:

  • Suggestions or requests for changes can be submitted via the chain of command or emailed to the CGIS Mission Support team. Comments and suggestions from users are encouraged and welcomed.