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87TH SUPPORT BATTALION
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Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall consisting of a gold triangle one point down within an encircling gold scroll of three loops inscribed "BASE" on the left, "OF THE" on the right, and "PYRAMID" in base in black letters, all surmounted by a crimson triangle one point up bearing a gold cross patte charged with a black crescent.

Symbolism
The triangles represent pyramids and allude to the motto of the Battalion.  The gold triangle supporting the crimson, denotes the former unit's maintenance function.  The cross, adapted from the coat of arms of Rome, refers to World War II service in the Apennines and other regions of Italy during World War II.  The crescent, a symbol of North Africa, commemorates service in Algeria and French Morocco by the parent Battalion.

Background
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 87th Maintenance Battalion on 22 September 1966.  It was redesignated for the 87th Support Battalion with the description and symbolism revised effective 16 October 1993.




Coat of Arms


Description/Blazon

Shield

Sable, a pile Or, overall an equilateral triangle throughout Gules charged with a Maltese cross of the second superimposed by a crescent of the first.

Crest

From a wreath Or and Sable, two palm fronds saltirewise Proper, surmounted by a hexagon with corners scalloped Gules charged with the head of a Roman standard-bearer (Aquilifer) wearing the winter skin of a mountain cat, all Proper.

Motto

BASE OF THE PYRAMID.

Symbolism

Shield

The interlocking triangles allude to Support and the unit's mission while highlighting the motto, "Base of the Pyramid."  The cross, derived from the city arms of Rome, refers to World War II service in the Apennines and other regions of Italy; the crescent commemorates service in Algeria and French Morocco.

Crest

The six campaigns in which the unit participated in World War II are recalled by the hexagon.  Italy is represented by the Roman standard-bearer (Aquilifer), recalling World War II service in that region, and the colors red and green along with the white animal skin, allude to the flag of Italy.  Service in North Africa is represented by the palm fronds.  Scarlet is associated with Support and stands for courage and sacrifice.

Background
The coat of arms was approved on 23 September 1993.  It was amended to include a crest on 8 November 1993.





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