Thanks stuey for having confirmed my research.
I agree, badges are No big deal. However, I consider that length of AB membership is worthy of note. Perhaps an e/mail to the Ed could result in his combining both of your profiles to show that you have been around for some 9years. It is 'computerwise' possible to adjust records.
By the way, your former self was awarded four 'Service Badges' on the day you were given only one. :-) Your 'Doppelgänger' has a 1year. 2yr, 3yr and 5yr membership accreditations......From my readings in AB it appears that 4yr awards have never been issued.
http://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/AB-Editors-Blog/Question1425519.html
Hans.