Title

Harold Irgens GAR Badge

Creation Date

1866 – 1904

Description

GAR Badge. Given to members of the Grand Army of the Republic. This one belonged to Harold Irgens. THE OBVERSE -- in the center of the badge is the figure of the goddess of liberty, representing loyalty. On either side, a soldier and a sailor clasping hands, representing fraternity, and two children receiving benediction and assurance of protection from the comrades, representing charity. On each side of the group is the National Flag and the Eagle, representing freedom; and the ax, or bundle of rods, or fasco, representing Union. In each point of the star is the insignia of the various branches of service -- the bugle for infantry, the crossed cannons for artillery, the crossed muskets for marines, the crossed sabers for cavalry, and the anchor for the sailors. Over the central groups are the words "Grand Army of the Republic" and under "1861 -- Veterans -- 1866" commemorating the commencement and close of the rebellion and also the date of organization of the Order. THE REVERSE SIDE represents a branch of laurel, the crown and reward of the brave, in each point of the star. The National Shield is in the center, surrounded by the twenty-four recognized Corps Badges, numerically arranged, each on a keystone and all linked together, showing they are united and will guard and protect the shield of the nation. Around the center is a circle of stars representing the states of the union comprising the Grand Army of the Republic. THE CLASP is comprised of the figure of an eagle with crossed cannons and ammunition, representing defense; the eagle with drawn sword hovering over and always ready to protect from insults or dishonor; the National Flag, which is also the emblem and ribbon of the Order. Below the eagle is a ribbon that looks like the American flag with 13 white and red stripes and a patch of blue in the corner. The serial number B87485 is stamped on the outer edge of the star. The GAR was a fraternal organization of honorably discharged members of the Union Army during the Civil War.