The badge system has common sense reasons to have the specified requirements. One of the most basic goals is to provide a method to recognize a person's advancement in skills and knowledge in order to achieve common-sense goals as they gain skills and knowledge.

There should ne nothing "macho" about these requirements. A new pilot is not going to impress experienced pilots with any reasonable goals as they advance in the skills and knowledge to fly tasks in a safe manner.

The prettiest badge in my opinion is the "A" badge. It marks a major step on the way to becoming a safe, competent pilot.

The diamond badge is a big deal - especially if earned in less than best soaring conditions. Even more so if earned in less than best sailplanes.

Those who have earned their Diamond badge in a Schweizer 1-26 have special bragging rights. Those who earned their Diamond Badge in a 1-26 in Kansas, have even more bragging rights!

The badge system rewards pilots who have achieved the skills and knowledge to meet a recognized standard.

For those who want or need additional goals, there are the regional, state, national and world records.

Badge rules need to make it reasonable for low time pilots to be able to safely achieve the goals. Without unreasonable, unnecessary, complications.

Tom Knauff