A gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/4 inches (3.18cm) in height overall consisting of a representation of a hornet's nest in blue enamel charged at top with five gold fleurs-de-lis and in base with a gold fine-pointed star, all enclosed by a continuous scarlet enamel scroll inscribed with the words "OLD HICKORY" at top and "BRIGADE" below and crossing at center overall from lower right to upper left a gold branch of laurel beneath a gold sword with point at upper right and hilt at lower left the blade divided in half lengthwise with green enamel above and red enamel below, both ends of sword and laurel branch protruding outside the scroll.
The hornet's nest, adapted from the crest of the North Carolina ARNG, is a reference to the unit's home area. The fleurs-de-lis represent the unit's participation in five campaigns in Europe during World War II, while the sword with blade in the colors of the Belgium Fourragre refers to that award received for service in Belgium and the Ardennes. The laurel branch and the star denote awards of the French Croix de Guerre with Palm and with Star for service in France during World War II; the scarlet scroll alludes to the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
The distinctive unit insignia was authorized for the noncolor bearing units of the 30th Infantry Brigade on 11 Jun 1974. The insignia was redesignated for the 30th Armored Brigade, North Carolina Army National Guard effective 1 Sep 2004.