39th Signal Battalion, US Army
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39TH SIGNAL BATTALION, US ARMY
Official blazon
Shield: Tenné, a sword palewise Argent (Silver Gray) debruised by a saltire Argent charged with four rays issuant saltirewise Sable, overall a quatrefoil Gules fimbriated of the third.
Crest: From a wreath Argent and Tenné a tower of the first issuing five lightning flashes pilewise Gules fimbriated Or superimposed in base by an Oriental dragon's head of the third.
Motto: THE WILL TO SUCCEED.
Distinctive Unit Insignia. Description: A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in height overall, consisting of a silver sword point up, the blade surmounted in cross by four intersecting red discs, the intersections silver, overall four black rays saltirewise in point; all in front of a silver encircling scroll inscribed "THE WILL TO SUCCEED" in black
Origin/meaning
Orange and white are colors traditionally associated with the Signal Corps. The sword symbolizes service in Vietnam, for which the unit was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation. The intersecting quatrefoil, rays and saltire represent a radio beam and reflect aspects of the unit's mission. Red, black and silver, the former colors of Germany's national flag, allude to service in the Rhineland during World War II. Red and white are also the colors for the signal flags in the branch insignia. Crest: The tower, a symbol of defense and strength, represents the unit's World War II service in Rhineland and Central Europe and suggests that region of Europe. Vietnam service is commemorated by the Oriental dragon which is red, denoting valor and sacrifice. The five lightning flashes, symbolizing quick response and electronic warfare, reflect the unit's Meritorious Unit commendations for Vietnam War service; red is the color of the decoration, and gold is emblematic of honor and high achievement.
The coat of arms was approved on 11 May 1993. It was amended to include a crest on 17 March 1997. The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 20 January 1967. It was amended to revise the description and symbolism on 11 May 1993.
Literature: Image from Wikimedia Commons. Information from The Institute of Heraldry, US Army.