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US Army Insignia

US Army Battalions



278 Chemical Battalion

278 Chemical Battalion
Unit Insignia

  • Description: A Gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall consisting of a shield blazoned: Argent, a saltire Gules fimbriated Or cantoned by four mullets Azure, overall a dragon segreant Vert, armed and langued of the third. Attached below the shield a cobalt blue scroll inscribed "DEFENSORI VISIUM" in Gold.
  • Symbolism: Cobalt blue and golden yellow are the colors traditionally used by Chemical units. The golden yellow fimbriation on the saltire suggests the courageous spirit of the personnel in the battalion. The dragon, a legendary creature, symbolizes vigilance and power, emphasizing the fire and destruction of chemical warfare. The red diagonal cross or the Saint Andrew cross is adapted from the flag of Alabama and represents the state where the battalion is located. The blue stars highlight the battalion's four major European campaigns during World War II. Scarlet signifies courage and sacrifice.
  • Background: The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 28 March 2003.

278 Chemical Battalion
Coat of Arms

  • Description: Shield: Argent, a saltire Gules fimbriated Or cantoned by four mullets Azure, overall a dragon segreant Vert, armed and langued of the third. Crest: That for the regiments and separate battalions of the Alabama Army National Guard: From a wreath Argent and Gules, a slip of cotton plant with full bursting boll, Proper. Motto: DEFENSORI VISIUM (Protectors of the Force).
  • Symbolism: Shield: Cobalt blue and golden yellow are the colors traditionally used by Chemical units. The golden yellow fimbriation on the saltire suggests the courageous spirit of the personnel in the battalion. The dragon, a legendary creature, symbolizes vigilance and power, emphasizing the fire and destruction of chemical warfare. The red diagonal cross or the Saint Andrew cross is adapted from the flag of Alabama and represents the state where the battalion is located. The blue stars highlight the battalion's four major European campaigns during World War II. Scarlet signifies courage and sacrifice. Crest: The crest is that of the Alabama Army National Guard.
  • Background: The coat of arms was approved on 28 March 2003.