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563RD SUPPORT BATTALION
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Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in height overall consisting of a black tower emitting red flames, those from the top emerging in three points and one streaming from each side, in the center of the tower a vertical gold key with handle in base, the tower within and its top extending over a gold ring bearing six blue drops; the sides and base of the ring enclosed by a curved black scroll inscribed "KEEP THEM FIGHTING" in gold letters.

Symbolism
The battalion's five campaign honors awarded for service in Europe, World War II are commemorated by the five flames. The award for occupation in Germany is symbolized by the black tower. The gold ring, which alludes to wheels, refers to the historic predecessor Quartermaster Battalion. The prime mission of the 563d Supply and Service Battalion is symbolized by the gold key; the blue drops together with the flames of fire indicate the decontamination services adaptable for firefighting and mobile shower service.

Background
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 563rd Supply and Service Battalion on 8 November 1966. It was redesignated for the 563rd Support Battalion on 21 June 2005.




Coat of Arms


Description/Blazon

Shield

Gules, an annulet Or surmounted on dexter and sinister with six gouttes, three and three, Azure debruised by a pale of the second bearing a tower Sable flammant, charged with a key, ward up Or.

Crest

From a wreath Or and Gules, a demi-sphere Azure surmounted by six bamboo stalks in chevron, three and three of the first fretted at chief point; in base a mullet Argent.

Motto

KEEP THEM FIGHTING.

Symbolism

Shield

Red is the color traditionally associated with Support units. The gold ring, which alludes to wheels, refers to the historic predecessor Quartermaster Battalion. The pale denotes military strength. The award for service in Germany is symbolized by the black tower. The blue drops together with the flames of fire indicate the decontamination services assigned for firefighting and mobile shower service. The battalions five campaign honors awarded for service in Europe, World War II are commemorated by the five flames. The prime mission of the 563d Support Battalion is symbolized by the gold key.

Crest

The ultramarine blue demi-sphere suggests the aviation support mission of the unit. The bamboo stalks signify the unit's campaign in Vietnam. The bamboo stalks in chevron symbolize support, the branch with which the unit is associated. The star represents the unit's Meritorious Unit Commendation awarded for service in Vietnam.

Background
The coat of arms was approved on 4 October 2005.





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