Shoulder Sleeve Insignia
Description
On an olive drab disc with a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) olive drab border, overall diameter 2 1/4 inches (5.72cm), the letters "C D" in scarlet.
Symbolism
The letters "C D" symbolize "Custer Division," a nickname derived from the formation of the division at Camp Custer, Michigan, and are an incentive to emulate the qualities of courage and self-sacrifice exemplified by the life of General George A. Custer.
Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was originally approved for the 85th Division on 24 December 1918. It was cancelled and a new design approved for the 85th Division (Training) on 29 June 1970. On 24 February 1986, the original shoulder sleeve insignia was reinstated for the 85th Division (Training). The insignia was redesignated for the 85th Division (Training Support) effective 17 October 1999. It was redesignated for the 85th U.S. Army Reserve Support Command on 4 November 2008.
(TIOH Drawing Number A-1-540)
Distinctive Unit Insignia
Description
A gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall consisting of a blue disc enclosed by a gold wreath of laurel, overall two crossed gold sabres points up, and centered thereon a scarlet cravat bearing in gold the device of the Michigan Cavalry Brigade, and below suspended from the sabre hilts, a blue scroll of three folds with the name "CUSTER" in gold letters on the fold between the four gold stars, two on the fold on either side.
Symbolism
General George Custer is represented by the colors scarlet and blue used on his personal flag, and by the scarlet cravat bearing the device of the Michigan Cavalry Brigade, which often formed a part of his uniform. His distinguished service in the Cavalry is recalled by the crossed sabres, and laurel wreath refers to his many victories and achievements in the service of his country. The blue scroll with two stars on either refer to the rank of Major General which Custer attained during the Civil War, becoming the Army's youngest general.
Background
A previous distinctive unit insignia was originally authorized for the noncolor bearing units of the 85th Division (Training) on 16 May 1967. The original insignia was cancelled and a new (the current) design was authorized for the 85th Division (Training) on 27 May 1986. It was redesignated for the 85th Division (Training Support) on 17 October 1999. The insignia was redesignated for the 85th U.S. Army Reserve Support Command on 4 November 2008.
