U.S. Army / U.S. Army Heraldry / Unit Insignia / Distinctive Unit Insignia, Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, Coat of Arms / Infantry / 47 Infantry Division /

47TH INFANTRY DIVISION
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Shoulder Sleeve Insignia


Description/Blazon
On a red disk 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) in diameter a blue disk 1 7/8 inches (4.76 cm) in diameter within a 1/16 inch (.16 cm) white border and bearing a white Viking's helmet with details in blue outline.

Symbolism
The circular background is representative of the shield of Thor - God of Thunder - a god of strength, the great defender, a victor in battle.  The blue is for Infantry from which came the first units of the National Guard of Minnesota and North Dakota.  The red is for Artillery, the second type arm to be organized in the National Guard of Minnesota and North Dakota.  The white Viking's helmet is symbolic of the Viking warriors; brave and fearless men of the North of invincible courage, early explorers, valiant and heroic in war, brilliant organizers of government in peace time.  Units of the 47th Infantry Division come from the two Midwestern states of Minnesota and North Dakota - formerly known as the Dakota Territory - pioneered, founded, and built by descendents of the Vikings, loyal sons and daughters of Scandinavian birth.

Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was approved on 28 March 1949.   (TIOH Dwg. No. A-1-111)




Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall consisting of a silver two horned Viking helmet charged with a silver star on a blue disc, resting on the curved blades of two crossed silver Viking lances, one facing right the other facing left, all on a blue targe (Viking shield) with a red border, in base a silver scroll bearing the inscription "FUROR VIKINGORUM" in blue letters.

Symbolism
The Viking helmet, symbolizing the ability to resist, is also a part of the unit's shoulder sleeve insignia.  The silver star represents the "Star of the North" that appears in the Minnesota State seal.  The two crossed Viking lances allude to the power of the 47th Infantry Division to protect and defend.  The Viking targe, with its sword breaking rings, was used by the foot soldiers of the period, symbolizing fearlessness, and bravery especially in battle.  The red border refers to endless courage.  Blue is the color used by the Infantry.  The motto translates to "Fury of the Vikings" or "Vikings Fury."

Background
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 22 August 1967.





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