U.S. Army / U.S. Army Heraldry / Unit Insignia / Distinctive Unit Insignia, Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, Coat of Arms / Miscellaneous Numeric Units / 20 Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives Command / Distinctive Unit Insignia

20TH CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL, NUCLEAR, EXPLOSIVES COMMAND
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Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A silver color metal and enamel device 1 3/16 inches (3.02 cm) in height consisting of a green field charged with five silver stars chevronwise over a sword with a yellow hilt and silver blade with a black center line issuing red and yellow flames; all enclosed by a continuous black scroll, looped at the top sides and bearing a green fleur-de-lis on top with the words "LIBERTATEM" on left side and "DEFENDIMUS" on right in silver letters.

Symbolism
The flaming sword highlights this country's aggressive stance with the battle against domestic and international terrorism. Green alludes to the Army as a land force. Black is in honor of the personnel who died on September 11, 2001, and the War Against Terror. The motto translates to "Liberty We Defend." The stars represent the five mission elements of the Command: Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, High-Yield Explosive Response. The stars also underscore the command being a multi-component unit in today's threat environment. The green fleur-de-lis is symbolic of the first modern day use of chemical warfare in Europe during World War I.

Background
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 20th Support Command on 5 April 2005.  The insignia was amended to change the description and amend the symbolism on 6 May 2005.  It was redesignated for the 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives Command effective 17 October 2013.





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