174 Infantry Brigade
Shoulder Sleeve Insignia
Description
On a rectangle arched at the top and bottom 3 inches (7.62 cm) in height and 2 inches (5.08 cm) in width overall, divided per chevron enhanced Scarlet and Celeste (Bluebird) with a chevron of two lightning bolts issuing from either side Argent, in base a Golden Yellow powder horn stringed of the same below a White polestar encircled by the string, all within a Golden Yellow 1/8 inch (.32 cm) border.
Symbolism
Light blue is one of the colors associated with the Infantry and white is for purity of purpose. Scarlet is the color of valor and sacrifice. Gold is emblematic of honor and high achievement. The chevron configuration of the two lightning bolts highlights the words “ON POINT” or to be in the lead. The lightning bolts also identify the unit’s lineage with the 78th Infantry Division’s insignia, “The Lightning Division.” The powder horn, used by our Revolutionary War Patriots, represents combat readiness as in “keeping your powder dry” and the ability to accomplish the mission. The polestar signifies guidance, leadership and alludes to the north area of our country in upper New York State, Fort Drum, Headquarters of the Brigade.
Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was approved on 7 September 2007. (TIOH Drawing Number A-1-940)
Distinctive Unit Insignia
Description
A Silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall consisting of a rayed disc bearing a Revolutionary Solider issuant from base with musket over his right shoulder all Silver, encircled by a Red designation band going behind the musket barrel inscribed with “PIUM IN CUSPIS” on the left side of the musket barrel end and two radiating Silver mullets on the right side; superimposed around the base is an oak wreath surmounted by a lightning bolt fesswise Celeste.
Symbolism
The Minuteman or Patriot reflects the Brigade’s motto and represents those citizen soldiers who fought for the ideals of liberty and a new way of life. The freedoms and prosperity we enjoy today we owe to our soldiers past and present. The lightning flash symbolizes quick response; its light blue color is a color used by the Infantry. It also identifies the unit’s lineage with the 78th Infantry Division’s insignia, “The Lightning Division.” Silver represents the color white. Red is for valor, sacrifice, and the blood shed in battle. The two stars commemorate the campaign participation credits awarded the Brigade for World War I and World War II. The oak wreath embodies strength and growth; its acorns allude to the growth and building of a new nation after the War of Independence. Today our soldiers must always be there to defend our freedoms, our way of life, and the Homeland. The motto translates to “Patriots On Point.”
Background
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 7 September 2007.
Combat Service Identification Badge
Description
A silver color metal and enamel device 2 inches (5.08 cm) in height consisting of a design similar to the shoulder sleeve insignia.