261ST MEDICAL BATTALION
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Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A Silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in width overall consisting of a shield blazoned:  Per pale and per chevron Argent and Sanguine, a fleur-de-lis counterchanged.  Attached below the shield a tripartite Silver scroll inscribed "PROUD TO TRAIN AND SAVE" in Maroon letters.

Symbolism
Maroon and white (Argent) are colors traditionally associated with the Medical Corps.  World War II service in France and Italy is represented by the fleur-de-lis and chevron respectively, the last also referring to the assaults in Normandy and suggesting the terrain of the locales of Naples and Rome where the unit saw service.  The significance of the participation in two major landings is denoted by the palewise division and counterchange of the shield.  The fleur-de-lis further symbolizes the special honor of the French Croix de Guerre and the Presidential Unit Citation for action in Normandy.

Background
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 8 July 1992.




Coat of Arms


Description/Blazon

Shield

Per pale and per chevron Argent and Sanguine, a fleur-de-lis counterchanged.

Crest

From a wreath of the colors, Argent and Sanguine, a wreath of laurel Proper surmounted by an arm in armor, gauntleted; grasping a serpent entwined Gules.

Motto

PROUD TO TRAIN AND SAVE.

Symbolism

Shield

Maroon and white are colors traditionally associated with the Medical Corps.  World War II service in France and Italy is represented by the fleur-de-lis and chevron respectively, the last also referring to the assaults in Normandy and suggesting the terrain of the locales of Naples and Rome where the unit saw service.  The significance of the participation in two major landings is denoted by the palewise division and counterchange of the shield.  The fleur-de-lis further symbolizes the special honor of the French Croix de Guerre and the Presidential Unit Citation for action in Normandy.

Crest

The colors red, white and green represent Italy.  The honors earned by the Battalion during World War II service in Europe are symbolized by the laurel wreath and the upraised fist signifying victory and the service credits won while fulfilling the mission of medical care to United States personnel.  The serpent, ancient symbol of medicine, refers to the mission.  The arrowed first denotes strength and the resolve to protect military personnel in wartime.  Red stands for courage and sacrifice, white for integrity, and green for health.

Background
The coat of arms was approved on 8 July 1992.





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