The History of Military Patches
The U.S. military patch, also referred to as the shoulder sleeve insignia, is a relatively new component of the modern military uniform. The military patch became common during World War II after originating during the first World War, when Gen. John J. Pershing authorized its limited use. The patches for the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard are a source of pride among personnel and have become collector items for civilians.
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Purpose
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The insignia is an embroidered patch that identifies the corps, division or brigade of the person wearing it. It is generally placed on the upper shoulder, but also can be placed on the helmet. It's either sewn onto the uniform or attached with Velcro.
19th Century Uniforms
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Up until World War I, most U.S. military uniforms carried no patches. But during the Civil War, many Union soldiers carried corps, division or brigade identification on their forage caps. The only sleeve patches were rank stripes. No soldiers wore any government-authorized patches during the military campaigns against Indian nations, the 1898 Spanish-American War and the 1916 campaign against Pancho Villa.
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World War I
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The first patch was formally introduced in May 1918 for the Army's 81st Division Wildcats. It was suggested to Army officials as an informal acknowledgment of the division. The Inspector General's Office approved the patch to promote esprit de corps. Pershing then ordered all divisions wear a patch. It was later expanded to corps and brigades.
Big Red 1
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The longest surviving patch belongs to the 1st Infantry Division, informally known as the Big Red One. The division was issued a patch with a large "1" emblazoned on it on Oct. 31, 1918, and is perhaps the most recognizable patch today.
World War II
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During the years between world wars, the use of patches spread. By the outbreak of World War II, all corps, divisions and brigades possessed insignia patches. Patches were unique to each division. The armored divisions, for example, featured red, yellow and a triangle with a symbol for armor in the center. More subdued colored patches were worn during the Vietnam War. During the Gulf Wars, patches were colored to match camouflage battlefield uniforms.
Symbolism Research
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The design of the insignia patch is the responsibility of the Army Adjutant General's Office's Institute of Heraldry. Research and design, which focuses on the heraldry and symbolism of patches, was originally performed by the Army Quartermaster Corps from 1924-62 before switching to the Adjutant General's Office.
Collector's Item
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The patch has evolved into a thriving cottage industry. Military veterans and civilians trade and sell patches, although value on the market is relatively low. World War II and Vietnam War-era patches command the most attention from collectors.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit U.S. Department of Defense
