45 Infantry Brigade Combat Team
Shoulder Sleeve Insignia
Description
On a red square approximately 3 3/8 inches (8.57 cm) on a side a yellow “Thunderbird” displayed and wings inverted 1 7/8 inches (4.76 cm) in height, 1 5/8 inches (4.13 cm) in width, the square to be worn point up.
Symbolism
The 45th Division was composed of Army National Guard troops of Colorado, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Arizona. As the territory was originally explored and settled by the Spanish, the insignia is gold and red, the Spanish colors. The “Thunderbird” is an Indian symbol meaning sacred bearer of happiness unlimited. The four sides of the insignia represent the four states comprising the Division.
Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was originally approved for the 45th Division on 22 May 1939. It was redesignated for the 45th Infantry Brigade on 11 July 1968. The insignia was redesignated for the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team with the description and symbolism updated on 1 July 2010. (TIOH Dwg. No. A-1-109)
Distinctive Unit Insignia
Description
A gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in height overall consisting of a blue square with one point up on which is superimposed the crest for the Oklahoma Army National Guard, an Indian’s head with war bonnet all gold. Attached below the square a two segmented gold scroll inscribed “SEMPER” on the dexter segment and “ANTICUS” on the sinister segment in blue letters. The insignia is manufactured to be worn in pairs.
Symbolism
The Indian appears of the seal of the State of Oklahoma. The colors gold and blue are representative of the Territory of Oklahoma, a portion of the Louisiana Purchase. The motto translates to “Always Forward.”
Background
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 45th Infantry Brigade on 28 July 1971. It was redesignated for the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team with the description and symbolism updated on 1 July 2010.
Combat Service Identification Badge
Description
A gold color metal and enamel device 2 inches (5.08 cm) in height consisting of a design similar to the shoulder sleeve insignia.