The distinction bestowed upon Frank Rubio, according to NASA, is the most unique badge a soldier can receive.

The astronaut of Salvadoran origin, Frank Rubio, was honored with a special distinction by the United States Armed Forces, one of the most prestigious awards that can be granted to a soldier in the North American country.

According to NASA, Rubio received the Army Astronaut Device after setting the American record for the most days spent in space on a single spaceflight.

The badge was presented by Christine E. Wormuth, Secretary of the US Navy.

"What an incredible honor it is to represent the US Army. The greatest honor for me that this badge represents is the fact that it's the ultimate team badge. You absolutely can't get to space on your own. It takes a team of thousands of people to get you there," said the astronaut during his acceptance speech.

What is the Army Astronaut Device?

The Army Astronaut Device, also known as the Army Infantry Astronaut Device (AIAD), is equipment designed to help soldiers maintain spatial orientation and develop cognitive skills while in extreme environments, such as submarines or low-light settings.

It consists of a portable device that projects a series of lights into the user's field of vision, allowing them to maintain a constant visual reference of their position and orientation, even in adverse conditions. This device is primarily used by the United States Army to enhance the navigation and orientation capabilities of its soldiers in challenging environments.