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U.S. ARMY DENTAL HEALTH ACTIVITY, ITALY
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Distinctive Unit Insignia

Distinctive Unit Insignia

Description
A silver metal and epoxied shield shaped device 1 1/4 inch (3.18cm) in height, the top of the shield crenellated/embattled and blazoned as follows: Per bend Argent and Sanguine, in chief a stylized winged lion statant Argent (Silver), detailed Gris, in base a cross couped of the second; on each side of the shield an olive branch with nine leaves and four olives issuing from the ends of the scroll of the third. Attached below the shield, a silver scroll inscribed in Italian LA PRONTEZZA which translates to READINESS in Maroon.

Symbolism
Maroon and white are the traditional colors of the Army Medical Department.  The shape of the DUI refers to one pillar from the top of castle walls for military significance.  The Lion of Saint Mark suggests the location of the unit Vicenza overlooking Venice, Italy.  The cross denotes the basic medical mission of the unit.  The olive branches are a symbol of peace, and further alludes to Italy.  The motto in Italian La Prontezza translates to Readiness.





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