Maroon and white are colors used for the Army Medical Department. Scarlet refers to the predecessor hospital’s Meritorious Unit Commendation for service in Italy during World War II. The peaks, indicating mountainous terrain of the North Apennines and Po Valley, denote the area where the unit was cited; the olive spray alludes to the operation code name “Olive.” Additionally, the wreath of olive and oak, suggested by the coat of arms of Italy, and the five peaks represent the hospital’s participation in five campaigns. Both the cross, a symbol of aid and assistance, and the gold rays which signify radiant healing capabilities, refer to the unit’s mission. The scarlet disk with white border, from the flag of Ohio, indicates the hospital’s location.