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214TH AVIATION REGIMENT
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Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/16 inches (2.70 cm) in height consisting of a square with rounded top divided horizontally by a zig-zag line two points down, the upper part light blue and the lower part ultramarine blue, overall issuing from the lower right angle the gold head of a cougar; all beneath a gold scroll inscribed "UP TIGHT" in ultramarine blue letters.

Symbolism
The cougar, noted for ferocity and cunning a symbol of strength and mobility, represents the Regiment.  It refers to the organization's mission of swift and decisive engagement of the enemy.  In addition, the use of the cougar commemorates the unit's first commander, LTC Leslie, from the state of Montana where the cougar, also known as a mountain lion, is often encountered.  The peaks formed by the zig-zag lines allude to the unit's high standards as expressed in its motto, "UP TIGHT."  The light blue color represents the sky, the color ultramarine blue is for Army Aviation units and gold is for achievement and zeal.

Background
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 214th Aviation Battalion on 14 June 1968.  It was amended to revise the symbolism on 29 September 1981.  The insignia was redesignated for the 214th Aviation Regiment with symbolism revised on 9 October 1987.




Coat of Arms


Description/Blazon

Shield

Azure, a chief dancetty Celeste (Light Blue), issuant from sinister base bendwise a cougar's head and shoulders Or, fangs Argent.

Crest

Upon a wreath of the colors, Or and Azure, in front of a wreath of laurel tied in base with a ribbon of the first striped of five Gules, a pair of dragon wings conjoined in leure of the like enclosing at center a cross patty Gold.

Motto

UP TIGHT.

Symbolism

Shield

The cougar, noted for ferocity and cunning a symbol of strength and mobility, represents the Regiment.  It refers to the organization's mission of swift and decisive engagement of the enemy.  In addition, the use of the cougar commemorates the unit's first commander, LTC Leslie, from the state of Montana where the cougar, also known as a mountain lion, is often encountered.  The peaks formed by the zig-zag lines allude to the unit's high standards as expressed in its motto, "UP TIGHT."  The light blue color represents the sky, the color ultramarine blue is for Army Aviation units and gold is for achievement and zeal.

Crest

The dragon wings are used to symbolize the 214th Aviation Battalion's service in Vietnam and the color scarlet signifies the award of the Meritorious Unit Commendation.  The gold laurel wreath represents award of the Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal.  The gold ribbon tie with five red stripes and gold cross patty at center indicate five awards of the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.  The thirteen points of the wings refer to the Battalion's participation in thirteen campaigns during the Vietnam War.

Background
The coat of arms was originally approved for the 214th Aviation Battalion on 7 April 1983.  It was redesignated for the 214th Aviation Regiment with symbolism revised on 9 October 1987.





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