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223D AVIATION REGIMENT
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Distinctive Unit Insignia


Description/Blazon
A silver color metal and enamel device 1 3/16 inches (3.02 cm) in height overall consisting of a silver key with double bits each of one notch and the bow in the shape of a three-bladed propeller, one blade up, between two wings points up, the ulnas angled, squared, and resting on the lower blades of the propeller/bow and the wing tips terminating at the upper edge of the bits, the areas between the wings and key in blue.

Symbolism
The wings, with the ulnas squared in allusion to rotor blades, the key with the three-bladed propeller-shaped bow and the double bits refer to the unit's primary mission.  The key is symbolic of command and control.  The two wings, the double bits of the key and the three-bladed propeller also allude to the unit's numerical designation.

Background
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 223d Aviation Battalion on 8 June 1967.  It was redesignated for the 223d Aviation Regiment with the description and symbolism revised effective 17 November 1987.




Coat of Arms


Description/Blazon

Shield

Azure, between two wings couped at the ulnas, elevated and displayed, a double-warded key, shaft palewise to chief issuing from a blade of a three-bladed propeller Argent.

Crest

On a wreath of the colors, Argent and Azure, a broad arrow point up of the first, the ferrule in the pattern and colors of the Valorous Unit Award streamer Proper, interlaced by a stylized garland of rice Or.

Motto

THE MARK OF EXCELLENCE.

Symbolism

Shield

Ultramarine blue is the primary color of Aviation.  The wings, with the ulnas squared, and the propeller/bows are an allusion to rotor blades.  The key is symbolic of command and control.  The two wings, the double bits of the key and the three-bladed propeller also allude to the unit's numerical designation.

Crest

The broad arrow represents the unit's wartime service in Vietnam.  The Valorous Unit Award for Ho Chi Minh Trail action is reflected by the colors of the band on the broad arrow.  The four Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm are represented by the stalks of rice.  The rice, symbolic of Vietnam, forms a wreath and alludes to the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal, First Class.

Background
The coat of arms was approved for the 223d Aviation Regiment effective 17 November 1987.  It was amended to add a crest and motto on 24 October 1988.





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