TRF vs Formation sign vs Arm Badges

[davidguthrie]

Trying to understand the difference between a TRF (Tactical Recognition Flash) and a Formation Sign, I've also seen some refered to as Arm Badges. When would one or the other be worn? Would one wear both a TRF & a formation sign at the same time? I recently saw a smock/coat on ebay with both patches below, one on each shoulder. Are these both TRF's, or is one more accurately a Formation Sign?

[54Bty]

In 2003 the Army Dress Committee (ADC) decided that all Regiments and Corps are required to record their Tactical Recognition Flash (TRF), also Divisions and Brigades are to record their Formation Badge (FB). Each design has to be recorded and registered with the ADC whether or not the badge is subsequently worn. They are not to exceed 60 mm and the design registered if worn will be worn by all, including those who already wear a Drop Zone Flash. However the size of the DZ flash may remain the same unless the TRF changes.

The TRF will be worn on the RIGHT sleeve and the FB on the LEFT sleeve below the Union Flag. All designs are to face forward ie., a forward facing Rat on the right sleeve would face to the rear on the left sleeve, so new ones were made.

[grey_green_acorn]

Further to 54Bty's excellent information the terms Formation Sign and Formation Badge are often used incorrectly. Technically a Formation Badge is worn on clothing while the Formation Sign is displayed on stationery letterheads, vehicles and signboards at Barrack gates and on buildings etc.

Also the introduction of Osprey and other types of body armour and protective clothing has led to the practice of TRFs and Formation Badges sometimes being worn (usually attached by velco) on the chest and on the helmet.

[davidguthrie]

Many thanks to 54Bty and grey_green_acorn, their explanations are very helpful.
So it looks like in the example I had, the patches I pictured, the Royal Regiment of Scotland patch (it was on the right sleeve) is the TRF, the 52nd Brigade patch is the Formation Badge.
Is there some public source that shows the authorized TRF's & FB's? I saw a poster of TRF's on one website, but it was so small to make the regiments hard to read, and haven't seen anything on the FB's. I'm curious as to the current FB's for the RROS.

[evjebro]

Originally Posted by 54Bty

In 2003 the Army Dress Committee (ADC) decided that all Regiments and Corps are required to record their Tactical Recognition Flash (TRF), also Divisions and Brigades are to record their Formation Badge (FB). Each design has to be recorded and registered with the ADC whether or not the badge is subsequently worn. They are not to exceed 60 mm and the design registered if worn will be worn by all, including those who already wear a Drop Zone Flash. However the size of the DZ flash may remain the same unless the TRF changes.

The TRF will be worn on the RIGHT sleeve and the FB on the LEFT sleeve below the Union Flag. All designs are to face forward ie., a forward facing Rat on the right sleeve would face to the rear on the left sleeve, so new ones were made.

This really helps a new collector from Norway, thanks.

[leigh kitchen]

Not a modern TRF & patch man myself, but have you checked out this site?
Insignia costing pennies in some cases, some others at about a quid & a half:

http://www.ecsnaith.com/badges/trf.html

[evjebro]

Originally Posted by leigh kitchen

Not a modern TRF & patch man myself, but have you checked out this site?
Insignia costing pennies in some cases, some others at about a quid & a half:

http://www.ecsnaith.com/badges/trf.html

Thanks for the info. Just placed an order now, some really nice prices.
Cheers,
Ole