What is the reason for the use of stripes or bars for the police?

Answer by  Jalaine11 (2043)

The stripes represents the years of service that the officer has given. These stripes can usually be found on the arm of the uniform and represent every 5 years served. The bars on the uniform represent different awards or honors that the officer has received. There is not one set award they represent but can represent many different things.

Answer by  flamiss22 (5081)

It is meant to designate the rank of the officer. For instance sargeant and leuitenant has more bars than the patrolman.