Why is it when you get promoted in the U.S. Army some rank insignias go from gold to silver?

Question

You would think it would go from silver to gold, just curious is to why it goes that way? Thanks!

Answer 1

http://soldierstory.org/silver-gold.htm Has the whole story

Answer 2

The young second lieutenant approached the crusty old first sergeant and asked him about the origin of the commissioned officer insignias.

"Well, LT, it's history and tradition. First, we give you a gold bar representing that you're valuable BUT malleable. The silver bar of a first lieutenant represents value, but less malleable. When you make captain, you're twice as valuable so we give you two silver bars.

"As a colonel, you soar over military masses, hence the eagle. As a general, you're obviously a star. That answer your question, LT?"

"Yeah, but what about major and lieutenant colonel?"

"Now, son, that goes waaaaaay back in history. Back to the Garden of Eden even. You see, we've always covered our pricks with leaves . . ."

Answer 3

just the way somebody decided it should be way back in the day. i know one gold bar on the shoulder is 2cd lieutenant. get promoted and that bar goes to silver, 1st lieutenant. one gold rounded "leaf" is major. get promoted and that "leaf" switches to silver, lietenant colonel. those are the only to rank advancements that are like that.

Answer 4

No reason. Thats just the way it is. In boot camp they teach you "Silver is just well polished gold." Its a little way to remember your rank and recognition.

Answer 5

not gold, brass. or bronze.