16 Military Police Brigade
Shoulder Sleeve Insignia
Description
On a dark green oblong arched at top and base 3 inches (7.62 cm) in height and 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) in width overall a light green globe with dark green gridlines bearing a 5-pointed yellow star throughout and issuing from the lower edge of the globe to the height of the lateral arms of the star a yellow acute angle bearing a dark green arrowhead throughout its length with the lower edge of its blades coinciding with the lower edge of the star; all within a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) yellow border.
Symbolism
Green and gold are the colors used for the US Army Military Police, and a star is emblematic of that branch of service. A star also connotes leadership and authority. The arrowhead is a symbol for military preparedness and protection. All of the above, along with the globe, symbolize the overall mission, capabilities and operational sphere of the organization.
Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was originally approved for the 16th Military Police Brigade on 16 July 1981. It was amended to add the Airborne Tab on 23 February 1982. It was amended to delete the airborne tab effective 16 October 2008. (TIOH Drawing Number A-1-665)
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 (with the airborne tab).
Distinctive Unit Insignia
Description
A gold color metal and enamel insignia 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in height consisting of a diagonal band divided throughout by a radiant partition line gold and scarlet all within a green annulet the upper part inscribed with the motto “COMBAT SUPPORT” in gold letters and the lower part surmounted by two gold sprigs of oak leaves; overall an upright white sword the point between the two words of the motto and the pommel extending beyond the leaves and the lower part of the annulet.
Symbolism
The sword surmounting the band of flames represents military justice overcoming the fires of conflict and violence. The design refers to the basic mission of the Military Police Corps, the maintenance of law and order. The white sword, used on the insignia of many United States Army organizations in Vietnam, and the colors red and yellow, stand for service in that country. The oak leaves are for strength and also allude to the state tree of Maryland where the 16th Military Police Group was activated. The colors green and gold are for the Military Police Corps.
Background
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 16th Military Police Group on 7 November 1968. It was redesignated for the 16th Military Police Brigade effective 16 July 1981.