Final answer:
Soldiers may wear up to five combat and special skill badges at one time according to U.S. Army regulations. These include a maximum of two on the upper pocket flaps and three below the ribbons on the left side, plus up to two different badges on the right side. Combat badges take precedence over special skill badges when both are worn.
Step-by-step explanation:
The regulations regarding the wear of combat and special skill badges vary by military branch in the United States, but if we are focusing on the U.S. Army regulations, as specified in the Army Regulation 670-1, soldiers may wear up to a total of five combat and special skill badges at one time. Only two badges from either category can be worn on the upper pocket flaps of the uniform. When more than one badge is worn, they must be spaced 1/8 inch apart. Above the ribbons on the left side, one combat or special skill badge or metal tab replica representing an individual award can be worn. Below the ribbons, up to three badges can be worn side by side, spaced 1/4 inch apart. On the right side, soldiers may wear up to two badges that are of a different type than those worn on the left. If a badge above the ribbons is worn, badges on the right side must be aligned to the badge above the ribbons. If no badge is worn above the ribbons, the badges on the right are centered on the pocket. Additionally, combat badges have precedence over special skill badges, and when both are worn, the combat badge is placed above the special skill badge.