THESE 5 ARMY UNIT PATCHES ARE BOTH ABSURD AND AWESOME
Beginning in the 19th century, British military officers first wore embroidered military patches to signify their higher rank. The concept spread to America, and by World War I, patches became an effective way to distinguish between divisions in military units. Before the Civil War, military uniforms didn't have much decoration to them. That is until the 81st Division of the U.S. Army in 1918 popularized them even more after its mass production following The Great War. There are some exceptions, but the Great War put Army unit patches on the map. Below, we’re looking at some of the most interesting U.S. Army unit patches there are. Suggested read: Why Do We Call US Marines ‘Jarheads?’
Five Unique Army Unit Patches
While all Army unit patches hold a special place for Soldiers donning them, some remain in history for their unique representation and looks. Our Army unit patches list is far from complete but we’ve found a few interesting picks we think you’ll enjoy:
1. The 135th US Airborne Division
The list of all U.S. Army unit patches isn’t complete without a symbol that represents Soldiers that didn’t even exist. In fact, it’s likely you’ve never seen an actual Soldier ever represent the 135th US Airborne’s striking yellow and black tarantula. This is because the Soldiers wearing them were a phantom unit used to trick the Germans in World War II. An interesting look that was built to solidify the intimidation factor against Nazi forces. With a unique tie to both the Army and Air Force, the ghost army’s patch isn’t the only of its kind, but arguably the most iconic.
2. The 2nd Armored Division “Hell on Wheels”
In Fort Moore, you’ll find the “Hell on Wheels” representing one of the coolest mottos and patches in the American Armed Forces. The 2nd Armored Division patch has a lightning bolt, over a cannon, inside of a tank track. It’s representing a variety of tank-related action with a history that goes back to World War II. Overall, you can sum up the U.S. Army unit patches on the Soldiers in one word: badass. Fitting for a group known to have wreaked havoc against the Afrika Korps, destroy Nazis, and outmatch armored opposition during the Gulf War.
3. The 3d Armored Cavalry
While WWI was the beginning of unit patches for the U.S. Army on a more popular basis, like anything, there are exceptions. The 3d Armored Cavalry unit patch has a history dating back to 1846. The Elite Mounted Riflemen Regiment would represent the patch. Featuring a trumpet symbolizing mounted infantry regiments, the inscription "3 Brave Rifles" signifies the Regiment's number and motto. The green and yellow colors represent the original branch colors, while the grey letter color and numeral "3" symbolize steel, aligning with the motto "Blood and Steel." Some may argue that this Army unit patch isn’t the flashiest, and seeing as it was created mid 19th century, there may be some truth to it. Nevertheless, the historical context of the 3d Armored Cavalry patch continues to be one of the most unique in the history of the branch.
4. The 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade
You’ll find various insignias representing the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade; however, these Army unit patches all embody the unit’s motto “Wings of Thunder” extremely well. If you see National Guardsmen donning a Pegasus, you can find either a red/blue/gray-themed logo featuring an arrowhead or a blue and orange square also showcasing the mythical creature.
5. U.S. Army South
It started back in 1944 with the Caribbean Defense Command. The U.S. Army South patch lets Soldiers also be pirates as it features a white pirate ship over a blue background. Throw in a red cross on the sails and you have a component command of USSOUTHCOM with a very unique patch. No word on whether or not it’s Davey Jones-approved.
Where to Buy Army Unit Patches?
It’s not hard to find Army unit patches for sale. Many major retailers, such as Amazon, Walmart, eBay, USAMM, and more provide options online and in-person. However, you can also try a local base post exchange (PX) or military surplus store. Getting them shipped right to you these days is like most things, only a few clicks away! Read next: Amazon Black Friday Deals Veterans & Civilians Won’t Want to Miss