Shoulder Sleeve Insignia

Description

On a rectangle with rounded corners 2 3/4 inches (6.99 cm) in height and 2 1/4 inches (5.72 cm) in width overall upon a dark blue background, two wings, feathers pointing down white, surmounted by a dagger point up black, arrayed to top the stars of the big dipper gold, all within a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) golden orange border.

Symbolism

Ultramarine blue and golden orange the colors traditionally used by Aviation units.  The wings represent the unit’s Aviation mission, while the 16 feathers of each wing denote the numerical designation of the Brigade.  The seven stars of the Big Dipper, part of the constellation Ursa Major, indicate the night flying capability significant of the unit owning the night.  The dagger implies combat readiness and swift strike capability.

Background

The shoulder sleeve insignia was approved on 3 December 2009. TIOH Drawing Number A-1-1018) 

Distinctive Unit Insignia

Description

A gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in width overall consisting of a purple mountain with three jagged peaks in base a black area (helipad) behind the mountain two red bars, the upper one following the contour of the mountain peaks.  The purple and black areas are surmounted by a gold falcon’s head all within a light blue circle with the lower portion covered by a gold scroll inscribed “BORN IN BATTLE” in black letters.

Symbolism

The falcon’s head symbolizes the strong combat flying capabilities of the unit.  The purple mountains refer to those in the northern most part of South Vietnam where the unit was activated.  The three mountain peaks symbolize the threefold effort of the US, ARVN and FWMF to win freedom and secure peace.  The black area in base alludes to a helipad.  The gold and red bars refer to the flares and flashes of battle, also gold and red are the national colors of the Republic of Vietnam.  The blue annulet stands for the continuous and courageous efforts of the unit in the sky.

Background