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172nd Infantry Regiment Distinctive Unit Insignia

[edit] Description

A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86cm) in height overall, consisting of a white triangular shape, the base of which is broken by four smaller blue triangles. Placed vertically in the center of the main triangle is a gold Totem Pole. Running parallel to the right hand side of the triangle and passing behind the Totem Pole is a blue and silver bayonet, to left of the Totem Pole is an eight pointed red star (a mullet), below the triangle is a silver motto scroll bearing the inscription “CAVEAT” in black letters.

[edit] Symbolism

The basic white triangle represents a snow capped mountain representing the Alaskan terrain in which the unit is trained to operate. The Totem Pole of an American Eagle sitting upon a Russian Bear, is representative of the purchase of Alaska from Russia. The bayonet symbolizes the Infantry, as does the Infantry blue at the base of the mountain. The red mullet alludes to the Great Dipper, and the North Star which represents Alaska the State in which the Brigade was organized and serves. The red color of the mullet symbolizes the Artillery. The motto “CAVEAT” (meaning “Let Him Beware”) is placed on the motto scroll.

[edit] Background

The distinctive unit insignia was authorized on 8 Jun 1966.

[edit] Licensing

This image shows a flag, a coat of arms, a seal or some other official insignia produced by the United States Army Institute of Heraldry. It is in the public domain but its use is restricted by Title 18, United States Code, Section 704 and the Code of Federal Regulations (32 CFR, Part 507). Permission to use these images for commercial purposes must be obtained from The Institute of Heraldry prior to their use.

• 172nd Infantry Brigade (United States)