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3273D US ARMY HOSPTIAL
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Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height consisting of a green silhouette of a palmetto tree bearing a silver cross at the top, and centered overall an upright sword, blade white and hilt yellow, entwined by a maroon serpent and enclosed on both sides by a maroon scroll inscribed "MEDICAL" on the left and "READINESS" on the right in silver letters.
 

Symbolism
Maroon and white (silver) are the colors associated with the Army Medical Corps.  The serpent is from the rod of Aesculapius, the symbol of medicine, and the cross refers to the humanitarian mission.  The sword represents the unit's military mission of readiness to support the medical needs of the service member.  The color yellow or gold on the hilt symbolizes excellence.  South Carolina, location of the hospital, is represented by the state tree, the palmetto.  This tree symbolizes the successful defense of 1776 of the palmetto-log fort on Sullivan's Island against the oaken ships of the British.

Background
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 17 March 1986.





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