American Police Badges and Insignia

[martymod]

I have seen a couple of films recently whereby the uniformed American police officer has a number of insignias under his Shield. When you look at other police nearby they are different in length an some upto 6-7" in length attached to the badge.
Does anyone out there know what this represents? Are they awards or medals?

[Clanad]

You're on the right track. Here in the U.S. nearly every city, county or State police organization has "bars"... those accoutrements worn near the badge depicting some honor the individual has achieved. Commendations can range (just like the military) from those awarded for markmanship on the shooting range, to outstanding service or even awards for bravery. Usually, these are worn only for dress purposes rather than with their everyday "work" uniforms...

[jno]

sort of 'Employee of the week', then, Clanad? I'm all in favour of incentives, myself.

[Clanad]

I've had the opportunity to qualify for Concealed Carry permit for a handgun, jno. To do so, one must attend classes as well as display competency on the range firing the handgun... up to 200 rounds (as well as a background check by the FBI).
The range often is used by the police to qualify (on a quartely basis) and I've had the pleasure of shooting with them. While doing acceptably, the various qualifications are pretty difficult... and that's with no one shooting back at you.
A childhood friend of mine is an officer on the State Highway Patrol and has been involved in over 10 "shoot-outs" with various bad guys in his career of 25 years or so. Needless to say, he survived while many of the opponents did not. He has a chest full of such "bars" or commendations. Secretly, I know he rather notch the handgrips on his .357 Magnum Ruger Blackhawk Police Special ... Of course that's against Department policy...