U.S. Army / U.S. Army Heraldry / Unit Insignia / Distinctive Unit Insignia, Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, Coat of Arms / Medical & Veterinary / 338 Medical Brigade /

338TH MEDICAL BRIGADE
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Shoulder Sleeve Insignia


Description/Blazon
On a maroon disc 2 3/4 inches (6.99 cm) in diameter a golden yellow annulet superimposed by a white cross fleuretty bearing a green rod entwined with a maroon serpent with a golden yellow eye, all enclosed with a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) white border.

Symbolism
Maroon and white are the colors of the Medical Corps. Gold is emblematic of excellence and high ideals. The ring alludes to a wheel or movement and represents the unit's service as a Hospital Train in World War II. The ring also highlights unity and cooperation. The cross is a symbol of aid and comfort. The demi-fleur-de-lis on the ends of the cross branches recall the organization's World War II history in Europe. The serpent entwined on the rod is called The Rod of Aesculapius and was the attribute of the Roman god of medicine and healing. Green is a color associated with healing and renewal.

Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was approved effective 17 September 2002 for the 338th Medical Brigade. (TIOH Drawing Number A-1-849)




Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A gold color metal and enamel insignia 1 3/16 inches (3.02 cm) in height overall consisting of a white keystone surmounted by a scarlet Greek cross bearing in the center a gold locomotive wheel, all between a semicircular maroon scroll, folded back on each side, passing under the horizontal arms of the cross, and bearing at the top the inscription "SOUND BODY" and in base "SHARP MIND" all in gold letters.

Symbolism
The Greek cross is a symbol of aid and assistance. The keystone represents the location of the unit's headquarters in Pennsylvania. The locomotive wheel refers historically to the unit's service in England and France during World War II as the 59th Hospital Train. Maroon and white are colors used for the Army Medical Department.

Background
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 338th Medical Group on 29 November 1972. It was redesignated effective 17 September 2002, with description and symbolism updated for the 338th Medical Brigade.





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