US Army Dental Activity Fort Riley

US ARMY DENTAL ACTIVITY FORT RILEY

Official blazon

Distinctive Unit Insignia. Description: A gold color metal and enamel device 1 3/16 inches (3.02cm) in height overall consisting of the ancient Greek letter delta all gold enclosing a maroon area with an upright sword, hilt to base, entwined by two serpents also gold, all on a white enamel area bordered by a continuous tri-arc gold scroll that passes under the tips of the delta and bears a demi-sun behind the delta at the top inscribed "PREVENT" on the left, "MAINTAIN" on the right and "RESTORE" in base all in black.

Origin/meaning

Maroon and white (silver) are the colors used for the Army Medical Department. The sword (a symbol for soldiers) and serpents simulate a caduceus (sans wings) and refer to the study and science of healing. Gold and silver (white) are the two precious metals used by the unit. Delta is equivalent to the English "D", the first letter of the word DENTISTRY, and together with all of the above represents the unit's overall mission and capabilities. The sun is emblematic of leadership and alludes to the sunflower of the State of Kansas, the home of DENTAC, Fort Riley.

The Distinctive Unit Insignia was approved on 15 May 1980.

Literature: Image and Information from The Institute of Heraldry, US Army.