88 Readiness Division
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Shoulder Sleeve Insignia


Description/Blazon
A blue quatrefoil (two figure 8"s crossing at right angles) 2 1/4 inches (5.72cm) in height, width of loops 15/16 inch (2.38cm).

Symbolism
The four leaf clover, formed by the two figures "8" represents the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois from which personnel of the Division originally came. Blue is symbolic of Infantry.

Background
Theshoulder sleeve insignia was originally authorized for the 88th Division bytelegram on 12 November 1918.  It wasofficially announced on 29 June 1922.  Itwas amended to correct the measurement on 11 October 1922.  The insignia was reassigned and authorizedeffective 16 April 1996 for the U.S. Army 88th Regional Support Command.  It was redesignated effective 16 July 2003, forthe U.S. Army 88th Regional Readiness Command. The insignia was redesignated effective 17 September 2008, for the 88thRegional Support Command and amended to add a symbolism. Redesignated to the88th Readiness Division effective 17 October 2018.




Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86cm) in height overall consisting of the head of a silver three-pronged halberd in front of and extending beyond the base of a blue quatrefoil having a silver demi-fleur-de-lis issuing from the upper lobe, all beneath an arched silver scroll bearing the inscription" VERITAS CAPUT" in red letters, the space between the quatrefoil and scroll divided vertically green and red.

Symbolism
The blue quatrefoil is suggestive of the shoulder sleeve insignia of the 88th Division. The demi-fleur-de-lis refers to the division's World War I service in France. The colors green, white and red of the Italian national flag, together with the three-pronged halberd, a medieval infantry weapon, symbolize the three battle honors earned in Italy during World War II. The colors red and green further allude to the award of the French Croix de Guerre with Palm for "Central Italy." The blue quatrefoil also simulates a lake and, with the fleur-de-lis, a compass symbol for "north," refers to the organization's location in Minnesota, known for its numerous lakes.

Background

Thedistinctive unit insignia was originally authorized for the 88th U.S. ArmyReserve Command on 2 April 1970.  It wasreassigned and authorized effective 16 April 1996, for the U.S. Army 88thRegional Support Command with the description and symbolism revised.  The insignia was redesignated effective 16July 2003, for the U.S. Army 88th Regional Readiness Command.  It was redesignated effective 17 September2008, for the 88th Regional Support Command. Redesignated to the 88th Readiness Division effective 17 October 2018.






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