AVIATION 

ARMY LINEAGE SERIES 

AVIATION 

Compiled by 

WAYNE NJ.. DZWONCHYK 

CENTER OF MILITARY HISTORY 

UNITED STATES ARMY 

WASHINGTON, D.C. 7986 
U.S. Arrny Center of Military History 

Col. Patrick J. Holland , Acting Chief of Military History 

Chief H istorian 

Acting Chief, H SD 

Editor in Chief 

David F. Trask 

J anice E. McKenney 

J ohn Elsberg 

Library of Congress Cataloging in Publication Data 

Dzwonchyk, Wayne M., 1950-

Aviation. 

(Army lineage series) 

Includes bibliographies. 

Supl. of Docs. no.: Dll4.ll:Av5 

l. United States. Army-Aviation-History. 

2. United States. Army-Aviation-Heraldry. I. Center of Military Histot·y. 

II. T itle. Ill. Series. UG633.D98 1985 358.4'00973 85-60024 1 

First Printing-CMH Pub 60- 12 

Fot· sale b)' the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office 

Washington, D.C. 20402 
Foreword 

Aviation units, a lthough they belong to o ne o f the newe1· branches of 

the Army, have compiled an imp1·essive record of achievement. From the 

organization of the earliest separate units in the Korean War era through 

an outstanding record in Vietnam and the recent achievement of independent branch status, Army aviation has become a n integral part of 

today's combined arms doctrine. The lineages, honors, and heraldic items 

in this volume should increase the historical awareness of aviation soldiers and enhance their pride in their units. A positive sense of unit 

identity a nd enthusiasm is an intangible but sig nificant factor in successful military organizations. It is our hope that this volume will contribute 

to the esprit de corps of Army aviatio n units. 

Washington, D.C. 

26 April 1985 

PATRICK j. 1 IOLLAND 

Colonel, Infantry 

Acting Chie r of Military llistory 

Preface 

The inception of organic Army aviation in World War II and the 

Korean War era can be traced to the growing realization that the ground 

commander needed aviation resources directly undet· his control and 

always responsive to his needs as an integral part of the organizational 

assets provided to accomplish his mission. There had been aero squadrons at the corps and army level in World War I, and observation squadrons had been provided in the 1920-I92 I division tables of organization. 

These units a nd personnel ultimately went under the control of the Army 

Air Corps, in 1930 in the Regular Army and in the 1940 call-up of the 

National Guard. Following successful experiences in the 194 1 maneuvers, 

the Army began usi ng light, fixed-wing aircraft in 1942 for artillery 

forward observation, liaison, and reconnaissance. Tactical air support 

and aerial troop and supply transport in World War II were provided by 

Army Air Corps units, which later became Air Force units. With the 

establishment of the Air Force as a separate service in 1947, the coordination of aviation resources to provide direct support to ground operations 

became problematic. I n response, the Army began cautious develo pment 

of its own aviatio n assets, build ing o n its World War II experience with 

light pla nes and experimenting with early rotary-wing aircraft. 

Army aviation as a separate organizatio nal entity emerged in the 

period 1950 to 1954, with the organization and activation of the first 

units, some provisional and some permanent. By J anuat·y 1953 four transportation helicopter companies, later redesignated as aviation units, had 

been organized, and a number of provisional helicopter ambulance detachments were operational. 

The aviation designation first appeared during implementation of 

the Pentomic concept in 1957. Aviatio n companies were assigned as 

organic elements of Regular Army infantry and armored d ivisions and to 

the 82d Airborne Division. Aviation companies organic to divisions in the 

Army Reserve were constituted and activated in J 958 and 1959. Beginning in 1959, aviatio n companies were added to National Guard divisions. 

Under the ROAD (Reorganization Obj ective Army Divisions) concept 

in L 963, these divisional aviatio n companies were expanded into battalions, 

consisting of a general support company and an airmobile company. The 

general support companies assumed the aerial surveillance, reconnaissance and liaison, and utility missio ns of the old d ivisio nal aviation 

companies, while the airmobile companies, augmented with armed escort 

helicopters, performed the mission of the old transportation light helicopter companies-the air movement of troops and materiel. T he 11 th Air 

Assault Division was also established in 1963 as a test fo r the ideas developed the previous year by the U.S. Army Tactical Mobility Requirements 

Vll 
Board (or Howze Board, after its president, Lt. General Hamilton H. 

Howze). 

Ultimately, only two divisions ever operated tactically under the 

airmobility concept. The llth Air Assault Division was inactivated in 1965, 

and the 1st. Cavalry Division and the 10 lst Airborne Division were 

reorganized, with organic aviation groups of three battalions of rotarywing aircraft and a fixed-wing aviation company. Nevertheless, the studies and tests the Howze Board carried out, examining the use of aviation 

to enhance mobility, had an important impact on the tremendous exp ansion of the role of Army aviation that took place during the Vietnam 

War. 

The uniquely high demands placed on aviation resources by the nature 

of operations in Vietnam led to the constitution and activation of a large 

number of nondivisional battalions to supplement aviation resources 

organic to divisions. T his, in turn, led to the constitution and activation of 

a number of nondivisional aviation groups and of the lst Aviation Brigade to provide needed levels of command and control. After the Vietnam War, the capabilities of the armed helicopter continued to be developed with new emphasis placed on the role of armed helicopters as tank 

destroyers. 

The range of missions assigned to aviation units today, from reconnaissance and transport to fire support and antitank combat, testify to the 

importance organic aviation has assumed in U.S. Army doctrine and 

operations, despite its relatively brief history. In April 1983 Secretary of 

the Army J ohn 0. Marsh, Jr., approved plans to establish aviation as a 

separate branch of the Army in order to achieve "full integration of 

Army aviation into the combined arms team." 

Aviation as a branch includes most of the units in the Army that use 

fixed- or rotary-wing aircraft tO perform their missions. This volume 

gathers in compact form the official historical records of aviation units in 

order to perpetuate their traditions, honors, and heraldic entitlements. It 

includes the lineage and honors of the lst Aviation Brigade and of all 

Regular Army, Army Reserve, and Army National Guard aviation groups 

and battalions as of 1 May 1983. Air traffic control units have not been 

included. 

Not all Army units using aircraft to perform their functions carry an 

aviation d esignation. They have therefore not been included in this 

compilation . For example, the heritage of aerial forward observers in 

World War II and aerial rocket artillery, which used armed helicopters in 

Vietnam to perform fire support missions, is preserved in the Field Artillery branch. Former aviation units, such as the 224th Aviation Battalion 

(now the 224th Military Intelligence Battalion), that have been converted 

to other branches will appear in those volumes pertaining to their current 

designations. 

The lineage and honors record of a unit is an outline history, and the 

official certificate attesting to that history, prepared in the Organizational 

History Branch of the U.S. Army Center of Military History, is a highly 

stylized document. The unit lineages in this book are adapted from the 

official certificates. The lineage begins with the official designation of the 

viii 
unit, followed by its special designation, if approved by the Center. The 

events in the life of a unit recorded as part of its past are restricted to a 

few specific actions, such as activation, inactivation, and redesignation. 

The data has been compressed to save space, which accounts for the 

technical language used. A glossary appears at the end of the volume to 

assist the reader in understanding these terms. Campaigns and decorations for all units are listed in each lineage. General orders announcing 

designations are shown parenthetically. 

The Organizational History Branch is responsible for the determination of official unit lineages and honors, and the lineages that appear in 

this volume are the result of research done by many members of the 

branch, past and present. Mr. Wayne M. Dzwonchyk brought all the lineages up to date and compiled the unit bibliographies with the help of 

Mr. Charles E. Dornbusch's comprehensive bibliography entitled Histmies, 

Penonal Nm-ratives, United States Army (Cornwallville, New York: Hope 

Farm Press, 1967) and the U.S. Army Military History I nstitute's similar 

work compiled by Colonel George S. Pappas entitled United States Army 

Unit Histories (Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania, 1971 ). The U.S. Army Aviation Digest also proved a valuable source of information about many units. 

While it does not appear on the unit bibliographies, Mr. Shelby L. Stanton's 

volume Vietnam Order of Battle (Washington, D.C.: U.S. News Books, 1981) 

also contains information about aviation units in Vietnam. In the compilation of the bibliographies, considerable assistance was rendered by Mr. 

Stephen Everett and Miss Dana Purdy. The manuscript was typed by 

Mrs. Reda Robinson and edited by Mrs. J oycelyn M. Canery. 

Descriptions of coat of arms, distinctive insignia, and flag devices 

approved for aviation units are included with the lineages. These 

descriptions, as well as the color illustrations of the heraldic items, were 

furnished by The Institute of Heraldry, U.S. Army. The Organizational 

History Branch is especially grateful to Dr. Opal V. Landrum, Miss Nadine 

Russell, and Miss Nuala Barry for their time and effort spent in assisting 

in the publication of this volume. In some instances, the text relating the 

the heraldic items approved for the units is not as comprehensive as in 

the original letters of approval, amendment, or redesignation sent to the 

organization. Minor changes in heraldic material have been made to 

meet the need for brevity in this volume. In addition to the color 

illustrations, a brief account of the evolution of these items is included. 

Since the Center of Military History is responsible for the determination and publication of unit lineage and honors under Army Regulations 

870- 5, comments are invited and should be addressed to the Center at 

Washington,.D.C. 20314- 0200. 

Wayne M. Dzwonchyk 

ix 

Contents 

HERALDIC ITEMS . . . . . . . . 

LINEAGES AND HERALDIC DATA . 

1st Aviation B1·igade 

1Oth Aviation G,-o-u.fJ 

1 1 th Aviation GroufJ 

12th Aviation GTO'UfJ 

15th Aviation Gmup 

16th Aviation G1'0up 

17th Aviation Gmup 

101 st Aviation G1·oujJ 

164/.h Aviation G1·oujJ 

165 t.h A via.tion GmufJ 

I sl A v~ation Battalion 

2d Aviation Battalion 

3d Aviation Battalion 

4th Aviation Battalion 

5th Aviation Battalion 

6th Aviation Battalion 

7th Aviation Battalion 

8th Aviation Battalion 

9th Aviation Battalion 

1 Ot.h Aviation Battalion 

1 1 t.h A viat.ion Battalion 

1 3 t.h Aviation Battalion 

14th Aviation Battalion 

16th Aviation Battalion 

18 tiL Aviation Battalion 

19th Aviation Battalion 

20th Aviation Battalion 

21st Aviation Batt.alion 

22d Aviation Battalion 

24th Aviation Battalion 

25th Aviation Battalion 

26th Aviation Battalion 

31st Aviation Battalion 

38th Aviation Battalion 

40th Aviation Battalion 

42d Aviation Battalion 

45th Aviation Battalion 

47th Aviation Bat.talion 

Page 

3 

5 

7 

10 

12 

[4 

16 

18 

20 

22 

24 

26 

28 

30 

31 

33 

35 

37 

38 

40 

41 

43 

45 

47 

49 

51 

52 

54 

55 

56 

'57 

59 

61 

63 

69 

71 

73 

75 

77 

78 

xi 
52d Aviation Battalion 

53 d Aviation Battalion 

55th A via,tion B atta.L-ion 

58 tit A victtion Battalion 

63d Aviation Battalion 

77th Aviation Batl.alion 

81 st Aviation Battalion 

82d Aviation Battalion 

83d Aviation Battalion 

90th Aviation Battalion 

101 st Aviation Battalion 

1 02d Aviation B au a lion 

I 23 d Aviation Battalion 

130th Aviation Uattalion . 

131 st Aviation Battalion . 

I 45th Avicttion Battalion . 

14 9th II. vialion Battalion . 

.!50th Aviation Battalion. 

.!58th Aviation Battalion. 

159th Aviation Battalion . 

16 0 th Aviation Battalion . 

I 64th Aviation Battalion . 

21 0 th Aviation Battalion . 

212 th Aviation Battalion . 

21 4th Aviation B attcdion . 

222d Aviation Baualion . 

223d Aviation Battalio·n · 

226th Ae1ial Surveill(mce and Esco1·t Battalion 

227th Aviation Battalion. 

228th Aviation Battalion. 

229th Aviation Battalion. 

230th Aviation Battalion . . 

267th Aviation Battalion . 

268th Aviation Battalion . 

269th Aviation Battalion . 

307th Aviation Battalion. 

308th Aviation Battalion . 

309th Aviation Bctttalion . 

3 I I th Aviation Battalion. 

50 1st Aviation Battalion. 

50 2 d A viati.on Battalion . 

503d Aviation Battalion . 

5 04 th Aviation JJ attalion . 

GLOSSARY OF LINEAGE TERMS 

xii 

Page 

80 

83 

84 

85 

87 

88 

90 

91 

92 

93 

94 

97 

98 

100 

102 

104 

106 

108 

1] 0 

112 

114 

115 

116 

118 

120 

122 

124 

126 

127 

130 

132 

135 

136 

137 

139 

141 

143 

144 

145 

146 

148 

150 

152 

153 
AVIATION 

Heraldic Items 

Heraldic items for Army organizations reflect history, tradition, ideals, 

and accomplishments. Coats of arms, historic badges, and distinctive insignia have been so designed that each is distinctive to the organization for 

which approved. They serve as identifying devices and as an inspiration 

and an incentive for unity of purpose. 

A coat of arms (or a historic badge) and a distinctive insignia are 

authorized for each regiment; coats of arms and distinctive insignia also 

are authorized for fixed battalions (those with organic companies). Distinctive insignia are authorized for tlexible battalions (those organized 

with a headquarters only) and groups. The designs of these items are 

based on the lineages and battle honors of the organizations. 

While the custom of bearing various symbols on shields, helmets, and 

flags existed in antiquity, heraldry was not introduced until the Middle 

Ages. The use of herald ic devices became more prevalent with the 

increased use of armor and the requirements for insignia to assist in 

distinguishing friend from foe on the battlefield. The symbols selected 

for use on these devices were commemorative of incidents of valor, mythological beasts, and, later, other symbols to which specific symbolism was 

ascribed. T hese heraldic bearings were placed on a surcoat worn over the 

armor, from which the term coat of arms was derived. Gradually a formal 

system of heraldry evolved, complete with rules for design, use, and 

display. These rules or principles were for the purpose of facilitating 

designs that would be d istinctive and easily recognized. Present-day heraldic devices stem from this heraldic system established during the twelfth 

and thirteenth centuries. 

A complete coat of arms consists of a shield, a crest, and a motto. The 

shield, the most important portion of the arms, contains the field or 

ground on which the charges are placed. The crest as originally used was 

placed upon the top of the helmet of the chief or leader to enable h is 

followers to distinguish him during battle. The crest is placed upon a 

wreath of six skeins or twists composed of the principal metal and principal color of the shield, alternately, in the order named. This wreath (or 

torse) represents the piece of cloth which the knight twisted around the 

top of his helmet, and by means of which the actual crest was attached. 

Mottoes have been in use longer than coats of arms, many of the older 

ones having originated from war cries. They usually are of an idealistic 

nature and sometimes allude to a well-known event in the history of the 

organization. The historic badges (authorized for some regiments in lieu 

of coats of arms) are of a symbolic composition and include mottoes, but 

they are not shield-shaped. 

The elements of the coat of arms or the historic badge, as applicable, 
4 

are embroidered on the organizational flag (color)-the central element 

of which is the American eagle. The shield of the coat of arms is on the 

eagle's breast; a scroll bearing the motto is held in his beak; and the crest 

is placed above his head. On flags of those organizations which have 

historic badges in lieu of coats of arms, the badge is placed above the 

eagle's head and the scroll bearing the motto is in his beak. 

Distinctive insignia manufactured in metal and enamel are worn on 

the uniform by all personnel of the regiment, battalion, or group. The 

insignia of the regiments and separate battalions usually are based on 

elements of the design of the coat of arms or historic badge. Flexible 

battalion and group insignia (often referred to as badges) are not shieldshaped; however, they are of a symbolic composition and include mottoes. 

The distinctive insignia is the basis for the flag device of each flexible 

battalion. It is appliqued on the center of the organization's distinguishing nag. 

The distinctive insignia, organizational colors and distinguishing flags 

are interlinked and these heraldic items today, as in the past, serve to 

distinguish specific organizations and their members. 
1st Aviation B1·igade 
lOth Aviation C1·oup 

11th Aviation C1·out) 

12th Aviation C1·oup 
15th Aviation Group 

16th Aviation G1·oup 

17th Aviation G1·oup 
10 I st Aviation G1·oup 

I 64th Aviation G1·oup 

165 th Aviation Group 
1st Aviation Battalion 
2d Aviation Battalion 

3d Aviation Battalion 
4th Aviation Battalion 
5th Aviation Battalion 
6th Aviation Battalion 

7th Aviation Battalion 
8th Aviation Battalion 

9th Aviation Battalion 
lOth Aviation Battalion 

I 1 th Aviat.ion Battalion 
13th Aviation Battalion 

14th A vialion Battalion 
16th A victtion n atl(tlion 

18th Aviation Battalion 
19th Aviation B aualion 

20th Aviation Battalion 
21st Aviation Battalion 

22d Aviation Battalion 
24th Aviation Battalion 

25th Aviation Battalion 
26th Aviation Battalion 
28th Aviation Battalion 
31st Avta . t.;on • Battalion 
38th Aviation Battalion 
40th Aviation Battalion 
42d Aviation Battalion 
45th Aviation Battalion 
47th Aviation Battalion 
52d Aviation Battalion 

53 d Aviation B atta.lion 
55th Aviation B ctttalion 

58th Aviation Battalion 
81 st Aviation B aualion 

77th Aviation Battalion 
82d Aviation Battalion 

83d Aviation Battalion 
101 st Aviation B aualion 

123d Aviation Battalion 
130th Aviation Battalion 
I 31st Aviation Battalion 

14 5th Aviation Battalion 
14 9th Aviation Battalion 
15 0 th Aviation Battalion 
! 60th Aviation Battalion 

164th Aviation Battalion 
159th Aviation Battalion 

158th Aviation Battalion 
210th Aviation Battalion 

2 12th Aviation Battalion 
222d Aviation Battalion 

214Lh Aviation Battalion 
223d Aviation Battalion 

227th Aviation Battalion 
228th Aviation Battalion 

229th Aviation Battalion 
267th Aviation Battalion 
268th Aviation Batt.alion 

269th Aviation Battalion 
307th Aviation Battalion 

311 th Aviation Battalion 
50lst Aviation Battalion 

502d Aviation Battalion 
503d Aviation Battalion 

504th Aviation Battalion 
LINEAGES AND HERALDIC DATA 

HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

1st AVIATION BRIGADE 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

SHOULDER SLEEVE INSIGNIA 

Description: On an ultramarine shield arched at top a golden orange 

swooping hawk head to left and wings elevated in front 

of a vertical unsheathed sword, point upward throughout with white blade and red hilt all within a golden 

orange border. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors used 

for aviation units. Gold and red are the colors of the 

Republic of Vietnam and of the shoulder sleeve insignia 

of the U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam and 

U.S. Army, Vietnam, the commands under which the 

brigade was formed and served in armed conflict. The 

hawk in flight preparing to strike its prey symbolizes 

aviation's impact on modern ground warfare. It was 

adopted as the symbol of the new aviation capabilities 

during the initial phase of air assault concept testing in 

1963. The crusader's sword, taken from the shoulder 

sleeve insignia of U.S. Military Assistance Command, 

Vietnam, identifies the origin and mission of the brigade in Vietnam. The rapid increase in aviation units 

in Vietnam dictated formation of the aviation brigade 

to command multiple units. 

DISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Desc1iption: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a swooping 

hawk with elevated wings. 

Symbolism: Gold is one of the colors of the Republic of Vietnam, 

and of the shoulder sleeve insignia of the U.S. Military 

Assistance Command, Vietnam and U.S. Army, Vietnam, the commands under which the brigade was 

formed and served in armed conflict. The hawk in 

flight preparing to strike its prey symbolizes aviation's 

impact on modern ground warfare. 

7 
8 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nondivisional) 

Constituted 25 April 1966 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 1st Aviation Brigade. Activated 25 May 1966 in 

Vietnam. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Viet11am 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase lJ 

Counteroffensive, Phase Ill 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

DECORATIONS 

Summe•·-Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation I I 

Cease-Fire 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Aviation 

Brigade, cited; DA GO 48, 1971) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1970 - 1971 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Aviation 

Brigade, cited; DA GO 646, US Army, Vietnam, 30 March 1972) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1971-1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, lst Aviation 

Brigade, cited; DA GO 32, 1973) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, lst Aviation Brigade, 

cited; DA GO 32, 1973) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, cited; DA GO 22, 1968, as amended by DA 

GO 21, 1969, DA GO 46, 1969, DA GO 59, 1969, and DA GO 38, 1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967- 1968 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, cited; DA GO 21, 1969, as amended by DA 

GO 46, 1969, DA GO 59, 1969, DA GO 60, 1969, DA GO 38, 1970, DA 

GO 43, 1970, and DA GO 51, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, lst Aviation Brigade, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, lst Aviation Brigade, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 
9 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1971 - 1972 (Headq uarters and Headquarters 

Company, lst Aviation Brigad e, cited; DA GO 6, 1974, as amended by 

DA GO 5, 1979) 

1ST AVIATION BRIGADE BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Allen, David J. "Diversity is the byword at the 1st Avn Brigade!" Anny 

Aviation 30 (23 June 1981):77-81. 

"The Fighting 1st of Vietnam." DATA: Magazine ofMilita?y RD&E Management 12 (August 1967):22- 29. 

1st Aviation Brigade, NGUY-HIEM. n.p., 1970. 

"1st Brigade is Back." United Stales Army Aviation Digest 23 (April 1977): 

49. 

"The Golden Hawk. " United States Army Aviation Digest 12 (October 

1966):inside back cover. 

Lopez, Michael S. "'Hawk' Colors Flying at Fort Rucker." United States 

Am~y Aviation Digest 19 (May 1973):49. 

Rogers, R. J oe. "Army Aviation in Vietnam." U.S. Naval Instit,ute Proceedings 95 (March 1969): 137 - 4 1. 

Seneff, G. P., Jr. "Talons from the Sky." United States ATmy Aviation 

Digest 12 (June 1967):26-27, 63. 

Tolson , John .J. Airmobility, !961-1971 . Vietnam Studies. Washington: 

Government Printing O ffice, 1973. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

lOth AVIATION GROUP 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia with a blue shakefork reversed, the three arms of equal length and couped, the 

vertical arm between two silver wings of five feathers 

each, the tips of feathers inward and surmounted by a 

golden orange arrowhead, a silver scroll in base passing 

over the throat of the arrowhead and over and back of 

the ends of the two lower arms of the shakefork, and 

bearing the motto "Will Do" in blue letters. 

Symbolism: The wings and the shakefork, which simulate the rotor 

blades of a helicopter, refer to the aviation mission of 

the organization, the ten feathers in the wings alluding 

to its numerical designation, and the arrowhead placed 

over the rotor blades and wings to the mqjor assault 

function of flying (carrying) troops into combat. The 

motto "WiH Do" reflects the unit's determination and 

success in accomplishing its objectives. The colors ultramarine blue and golden orange are traditionally associated with aviation units. 

FLAG DEVICE 

None approved. 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

(inactive) 

Constituted 30 June 1965 in the Regular Army as Headquarters. and 

Headquarters Company, lOth Aviation Group. Activated I July 1965 at 

Fort Benning, Georgia. Inactivated 15 May 1970 at Fort Benning, Georgia. 

CAMPAIGN PART ICIPAT ION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

10 
11 

lOTH AVIATION GROUP BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Histmy of the 1Oth Aviation Group Fort Benning, Georgia, 5 February 1963 to 

31 December 1966. n.p., 1967. 

"Huey Airmobility Training in the lOth Aviation Group." United States 

ArmyAviationDigest. 12 (September 1966):6- 10. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

11th AVIATION GROUP 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

DescrijJtion: A silver distinctive insignia consxstmg of a blue oval, 

behind a silver eagle displayed with an orange arrow 

erect charged on each wing, below a silver scroll inscribed 

"We Make the Difference" in black letters. 

Symbolism: The eagle is used to symbolize the superior flying ability 

of the 11th Aviation Group; the wings displayed with 

claws extended represen t the unit's outstanding record 

of revolutionizing airmobile warfare. The arrows further allude to speed in flight, while one arrow on each 

wing gives nume rical distinction to the 11th Aviation 

Group. Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the 

colors associated with aviation units. 

FLAG DEVICE 

None approved. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nondivisional) 

Constituted 1 February I 963 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, lith Air Assault Aviation Group, and 

assigned to the 11 th Air Assault Division. Activated 5 February 1963 at 

Fort Benning, Georgia. Reorganized and redesignated 1 July 1965 as 

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 11 th Aviation Group; concurrently, relieved from assignment to the 11th Air Assault Division and 

assigned to the lst Cavalry Division. Relieved 5 May 1971 from assignment to the lst Cavalry Division. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

12 

Vietnmn 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Coumeroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase 111 

TeL Coumeroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Countemffcnsive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase Vl 

TeL 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer-Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Coumeroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation I1 

Cease-Fire 
13 

DECORATIONS 

Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered PLEIKU 

PROVINCE (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 11th Aviation 

Group, cited; DA GO 40, 1967) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered FISH HOOK (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, lith Aviation Group, cited; DA 

GO 43, 1972) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1965-1966 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 11th Aviation 

Group, cited; DAGO 17, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1965- 1969 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

11th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 59, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969-1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

11th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 42, 1972 and DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1971 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

11th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 42, 1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1971- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

11th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, lith Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 42, 1972) 

11TH AVIATION GROUP BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Cass, Stanley D., and Sorenson, Wilbert W. "In Action With The 11th 

Combat Aviation Group." Army Aviation 19 (May 1973):43- 46. 

Coleman, J. D. ed. I stAir Cavalry Division, Memoi'rs of the First Team, Vietnam, 

August 1965 - December 1969. Tokyo: Dai Nippon Printing Co., 1970. 

Harris, Michael M. "First Team Moves South." Army 19 (May 1969):43-48. 

Hymoff, Edward. The First Air Cavalry Division: Vietnam. New York: M. W. 

Lads Publishing Co., 1967. 

Kinnard, Harry W. 0. "A Victory in the Ia Drang: T he Triumph of a 

Concept, the 1st Air Cavalry Division in Battle." Army 17 (September 

1967):71 - 9 1. 

Kunz, Eric R. " 11 th Aviation Group Aviation Training in USAREUR." 

United States Army Aviation Digest 22 (August 1976):2- 3 ff. 

Mertel, Kenneth D. Year of the Hm~~e-Vietnam; 1st AiT Cavalry in the Highlands. New York: Exposition Press, 1968. 

Seneff, G. P., Jr. "11th Air Assault (Aviation Group) and the Future." 

United States Army Aviation Digest 20 Qune 1974):8- 11 ff. 

Swenson, Elmore. " lith Aviation Group in Concept and Combat." United 

States A-rmy Aviation Digest 16 (May 1970): 16- 22. 

Tolson, John J. Airmobility, 1961-1971. Vietnam Studies. Washington: 

Government Printing Office, 1973. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

12th AVIATION GROUP 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of nine tongues of 

flame issuant from a common center with orange at 

their centers and their outer ends curled inwardly in a 

clockwise direction; separating the flames into three 

groups three blue wings emerging from a red disc in 

center the lower portion enclosed by a gold scroll bearing the motto "Ad Excelsum Conamur" (Strive for 

Excellence) in red letters. 

Symbolism: A mythological phoenix symbol, depicted in heraldry as 

a demieagle with wings d isplayed rising out of flames of 

fire and said to represent hope and life eternal, is the 

basis for this design. Thus the blue wings symbolize the 

Group's aircraft rising triumphant out of the tempering 

fires of combat, signifying hope and the continuity of 

life throughout hardships. The Aviation colors, blue and 

orange, are represented in the wings and flames and the 

total number of the tongues of flame and the wings 

equal the numerical designation of the group. 

FLAG DEVICE 

None approved. 

L INEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nondivisional) 

Constituted 15 June 1965 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 12th Aviation Group. Activated 18 June 1965 at 

Fort Benning, Georgia. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

14 

Vietnam 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase li 

Counteroffensive, Phase III 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tel 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter-Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation 11 

Cease-Fire 
15 

DECORATIONS 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1967 (12th Aviation Group cited; DA GO 48, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966-1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

12th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 22, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967- 1968 (12th Aviation Group cited; DA GO 21, 

1969, as amended by DA GO 43, 1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969-1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

12th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970-1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

12th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 6, 1974, and DA GO 54, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969 - 1970 (12th Aviation Group cited; DA GO 

55, 1971) 

12TH AVIATION G ROUP BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Dudley, Denise. "Bragg Flying Unit Off to Wiesbaden." Anny Times (19 

November 1979). 

Jones, Raymond G. "12th Aviation Group." United States Anny Aviation 

Digest 12 (October 1966):5- 7. 

Scott, Willard W .• and Stewart, j essie E. "V Corps Aviation Participation, 

Spearpoint '80." United States Army Aviation Digest 27 (February 1981): 

4 - 6. 

Tolson, John J . Airmobility, 1961 - 1971. Vietnam Studies. Washington: 

Government Printing Office, 1973. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

15th AVIATION GROUP 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a black tower 

masoned gold, turreted red, overall an upright winged 

sword, blade and hilt gold and wings white; all above a 

blue scroll inscribed "Flying Mustangs" in gold letters, 

the center part of the scroll surmounting the hilt of the 

sword. 

Symbolism: The upright sword from the shoulder sleeve insignia of 

United States Army, Europe, with the addition of wings 

for aviation, stands for air defense and also denotes that 

the initial service of the group was under that command. 

The number of feathers in each wing, i.e., fifteen, alludes 

to the organization's numerical designation. The heraldic tower, representing an aviation control tower, refers 

to the organization 's mission of command and control 

of aviation units and battalions. Black, red, and gold, 

the national colors of the Federal Republic of Germany, 

refer to the activation of the group in that country. Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors of aviation units; red, white, and blue refer to the United States. 

FLAG D EVICE 

None approved. 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

(inactive) 

Constitu ted 6 June 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 15th Aviation Group, and activated in Germany. 

Inactivated 2 April 1973 in Germany. 

16 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

15TH AVIATION GROUP BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

17 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

16th AVIATION GROUP 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DIST INCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a purple mountain with three jagged peaks in base a black area (helipad) 

behind the mountain two red bars, the upper one following the contour of the mountain peaks. The purple and 

black areas are surmounted by a gold falcon's head all 

within a light blue circle with the lower portion covered 

by a gold scroll inscribed in black letters, "Born in Battle." 

Symbolism: The falcon's head symbolizes the strong combat flying 

capabilities of the unit. The purple mountains refer to 

those in the northernmost part of South Vietnam where 

the unit was activated. The three mountain peaks symbolize the threefold effort of the United States, South 

Vietnam, and the Free World military forces to win freedom and secure peace. The black area in base all udes to 

the flares and flashes of battle. Also, gold and red are 

the national colors of the Republic of Vietnam. The 

blue annulet stands for the continuous and courageous 

efforts of the group. 

FLAG DEVICE 

None approved. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

( nondivisional) 

Constituted 20 December 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 16th Aviation Group, and activated in 

Vietnam. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

18 

Vietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase I I I 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 59/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 
19 

DECORATIONS 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered QUANG TIN PROVINCE 

(Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 16th Aviation Group, cited; 

DA GO 43, 1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967 - 1968 (16th Aviation Group cited; DA GO 21, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

16th Aviation Grou p, cited; DA GO 42, 1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM FEB- MAR 1971 (16th Aviation Group cited; DA GO 

42, 1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM APR- JUN 1971 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 16th Aviation Group , cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

164TH AVIATION GROUP BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Goodman, J effrey D., ed. The 16th Aviation Group (Combat) Chu Lai, Vietnam, 1970. n.p., 1970. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

17th AVIATION GROUP 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

DescrijJtion: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a blue disc bearing a gold eagle in flight, wings extended beyond the 

upper edge of the disc, grasping in its talons a sword, 

blade white, hilt and pommel gold; all above a gold 

scroll inscribed "Freedom's Eagles" in red letters. 

Symbolism: The color ultramarine blue is associated with aviation 

units. Gold and red, the colors of the national flag of the 

Republic of Vietnam, allude to the activation and initial 

combat service of the 17th Aviation Group in Vietnam. 

The eagle, mythological guardian of the element air, 

refers to aviation power; the sword stands for combat. 

The sword is white for the purity of the cause of freedom for which it is raised. It appears on the shoulder 

sleeve insignia of the United States Army Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, and of the 1st Aviation Brigade under which the unit served. 

FLAG DEVICE 

None approved. 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

(nondivisional) 

Constituted 1 December 1965 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 17th Aviation Group. Activated 15 December 1965 in Vietnam. Inactivated 16 March 1973 at Oakland, California. 

Activated 1 June 1975 in Korea. 

20 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Viel1w111 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase 11 

Counteroffensive, Phase I II 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counter·offensive, Phase V 

Counter·offensive, Phase VI 

DECORATIONS 

Tet 69/Countcroffcnsive 

Summer·- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Coumer·offensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 

Cease-Fire 

21 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

17th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 22, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967- 1968 (17th Aviation Group cited; DA GO 2 1, 

] 969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embro idered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

17th Aviation Group, cited ; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

17th Aviation Group, cited ; DA GO 6, 1974) 

17TH AVIATION GROUP BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Curtis, Phillip L., and Geis, Craig E. "17th Aviation Group (Combat)." 

United States Army Aviation Digest 24 (November 1978):20- 22. 

J ones, Raymond G. " 12th Aviation Group." United States Army Aviation 

Digest 12 (October 1966):5- 7. 

Nelson, Barry J. " 17th Combat Aviation Group. " United States Army Aviation Digest 13 (December 1 96 7): 14-1 7. 

Tolson, J ohn J. Airrnobility, 1961- 1971. Vietnam Studies. Washington: 

Government Printing Office, 1974. 

Wickham, John A., Jr. "Army Aviation in the Re public of Korea." United 

States A-rmy Aviation Digest 27 (September 198 1):2- 6. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

lOlst AVIATION GROUP 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA (BADGE) 

DescrijJtion: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a black winged 

bald eagle, beak, legs, and talons gold, alighting on the 

top of an open white parachute with gold rigging, all on 

a light blue area enclosed by a continuous black scroll 

lined gold arched across the top, tapered inwardly, 

reversed to the gold side in a convex arc around the 

base bearing the inscription "Wings of Destiny" in black 

letters. 

Symbolism: The eagle depicts the unit's strike capability and with 

the parachute symbolizes the uniting of Army aviation 

with an airborne division. The black and gold scroll refers 

to the colors of the 10 1st Airborne Division, while the 

light blue represents the sky. 

FLAG DEVICE 

None approved. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(1 0 lst Airborne Division) 

Constituted 1 July 1968 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 160th Aviation Group, assigned to the lOlst 

Airborne Division, and activated in Vietnam. Redesignated 25 June 1969 

as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, lO lst Aviation Group. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPAT ION CREDIT 

22 

Vietnam 

Coumet·oiTensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tel 69/Coumeroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 11 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation 11 
23 

DECORATIONS 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered THUA THIEN PROVINCE (l01st Aviation Group cited; DA GO 50, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1968-1969 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

10 1stAviation Group, cited; DA GO 43, 1970, as amended by DA GO 48, 

1971 and DA GO 5, 1979) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 197 1 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 10 lst 

Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1968 - 1970 (Headquarte rs a nd Headqua rters 

Company, l01 st Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 48, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1970 (101st Aviation Group cited; DA GO 11, 

1973) 

101ST AVIATION GROUP BIBLIOGRAPHY 

J asurda, Bruce S. "101st Airbome Division (Air Assault)." Infantry 68 

(May-june 1978):16-19. 

Pitchford, Gary L., ed. The Continuing Struggle, 1968-1969, A Pictorial 

Review of the JOist Airborne Division (Airmobile), the Second Year. lOlst 

Airborne Division Association, 1970. 

Wyro, Peter L. " 101st Aviation Group Night Flying." United States Army 

Aviation Digest 22 (January 1976):8-10. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

164th AVIATION GROUP 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a gold equilateral triangle containing two concentric red triangles a nd 

surmounted by a silver swooping hawk with wings displayed all in front of a blue disc enclosed by a tri-folded 

scroll inscribed in blue letters, "Here Am 1- Send Me." 

Symbolism: The triangular shape symbolizes the Mekong delta where 

the 164th Aviation Group was activated and where it 

conducted its operations. The concentric triangles refer 

to the unit's growth in its primary mission, to give 

support. Red and yellow are the colors used by the 

Republic of Vietnam, while the swooping silver hawk 

refers to the combat airpower of the unit. The color 

blue is used by aviation units; it also alludes to the ultimate goal of peaceful blue skies. 

FLAG D EVICE 

None approved. 

LI NEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

(inactive) 

Constituted 20 December 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 164th Aviation Group, and activated in 

Vietnam. Inactivated 14 March 1973 at Oakland, California. 

CAMPAIGN PART ICIPATION CREDIT 

24 

Viet1wm 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 59/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sancwary Counteroffensive 

Countet·offcnsive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 
25 

DECORATIONS 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967- 1968 (164th Aviation Group cited; DA GO 2 1, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

164th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 6, 1974 and DA GO 52, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallan try with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970-1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

J 64th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

! 64T H AVIATION GROUP BIBLIOGRA PHY 

Tolson, j ohn J. Airmobility, 1961 - 1971. Vietnam Studies. Washington: 

Government Prin ting Office, 1973. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

165th AVIATION GROUP 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA (B ADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a pair of white 

wings on an inverted blue chevron, overall a silver sword; 

all interlaced with an elliptical silver band so that the 

wings and the arms of the chevron extend over and 

beyond the outer edge of the band and the point and 

hilt of the sword under and beyond; the upper part of 

the band inscribed "Guide" and the lower part "Follow, 

Safeguard" all in blue letters. 

Symbolism: T he chevron supporting the wings stands for the group's 

mission of aviation support. The crusader's sword is 

taken from the shoulder sleeve insignia of the United 

States Army Military Assistance Command, Vietnam. It 

refers to the activation and initial combat service of the 

group in Vietnam. In addition, the sword simulates a 

"I"; the sword and the inverted chevron together represent the numeral "6" (Roman numeral VI) and the 

inverted chevron represents the numeral 5 (Roman 

numeral V); all refer to the organization's designation. 

Ultramarine blue is the color used for aviation units. 

FLAG DEVICE 

None approved. 

LiNEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

(inactive) 

Constituted I December 1968 in the Regular A1·my as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, I 65th Aviation Group. Activated 17 February 1969 in Vietnam. Inactivated 30 J anuary 1972 at Fort Lewis, 

Washington. 

26 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietuam 

Coumeroffensive, Phase VI 

Tel 69/Coumeroffensive 

Summet·-Fall 1969 

Winlet·-Spring 1970 

DECORATIONS 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase Vll 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 

27 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969-1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

165th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

165th Aviation Group, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

165TH AVIATION GROUP BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
1st AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per bend nebuly argent and azure, in base a mullet of 

eleven points of the first and in chief an alerion gules. 

On a wreath of the colors, a rgent and azure, issuant out 

of a cloud proper, four crossed lightning bolts their 

points in base, two at center gules between two gold. Super Primum (Above the First). 

Ultramarine blue is traditionally associated with aviation 

units. The alerion (a heraldic eagle without beak or talon) 

is symbolic of fligh t and further suggests the fixed wing 

variety of aircraft. The star, a symbol of achievement, 

also represents rotary-winged aircraft. The nebuly partition line is suggestive of clouds and sky. 

The lightning bolts out of a cloud are suggestive of the 

mission and capabilities of an aviation battalion in 

combat. Yellow and scarlet, the colors of the Re public of 

Vietnam, refe r to the unit's service in eleven campaigns 

there. Two awards of the Meritorious Unit Commendation are represented by the scarlet ligh tning bolts at 

center, and the two yellow bolts connote awards of the 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm and 

the Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First 

Class. 

D ISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

L INEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(1st Infantry Division) 

Constituted 15 February 1957 in the Regular Army as the lst Aviation Company, assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, and activated at Fort 

Riley, Kansas. Reorganized and redesignated 2 January 1964 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 1st Aviation Battalion (organic 

elements constituted 23 October 1963 and activated 2 J anuary 1964). 

Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 1st Aviation Battalion, reorganized and redesignated 21 April 1972 as the Aviation Company, 1st 

Infantry Division (organic elements concurrently inactivated). Reorgan28 
29 

ized and redesignated 2 September 1981 as Headqua1·ters and Headquarters Company, l st Aviation Battalion (organic elements concu rrently 

activated). 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase III 

Tel Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

DECORATIONS 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 59/Counteroffensive 

Summer-Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1965- 1966 (1st Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1968- 1969 (1st Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Re public of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1965- 1968 (lst Aviation Battalio n cited; DA GO 2 1, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1965- 1970 (lst Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 

53, 1970) 

1ST AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Dewey, Arthur E. "We Support." United States Army Aviation Digest 9 (May 

1963): 12- 15. 

Geist, William, ed. The Fi1·st Infant-ry Division in Vietnam, 1969. Tokyo: Da i 

Nippon Printing Co., 1969. 

In Vietnam, Octobe-r 1965-March 1967. "Always First." n. p., 1967. 

J ohnson, Willie F., et al. Firstlnfantry Divisionin Vietnam, 1 May 1967- 31 

Dec 1968. Tokyo: Dai Nippon Printing Co., 1969. 

Rogers, Bernard W. Cedm· Falls- junction City: A Tuming Point. Vietnam 

Studies. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1974. 

Wilson, Jimmie E., ed. Fi1·st Infantry Division In Vietnam, july 1965 - April 

1967. Tokyo: Dai Nippon Printing Co., 1967. 
2d AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

CTest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per chevron azure and argent, a pair of wings con joined 

in lure counterchanged . 

None approved. 

Excelsus (Lofty). 

Teal blue was formerly associated with aviation battalions. 

The white peak represents the highest elevation in North 

America, located in the McKinley Mountains in Alaska, 

where the unit was activated. The wings refer to the 

aviation function of the battalion. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND H ONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(2d Infantry Division) 

Constituted 24 May 1957 in the Regular Army as the 2d Aviation 

Company a nd assigned to the 2d Infantry Division. Activated 20 June 

1957 at Fort Richardson, Alaska. Reorganized and redesignated 20 February 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Aviation 

Battalion (organic elements constituted 25 J anuary 1963 and activated 20 

February 1963). 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

2D AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Hubbert, Bob. "2d Infantry Division, Air Assets." United Stales A1·my Aviation Digest 27 (September 1981):7- 10. 

2nd Aviation Battalion. Baton Rouge: Army and Navy Publishing Company 1956. , 

Shetter, M.D., ed. Wanior: Second Infant·ry Division, Km·ea, Fall1970. Seoul: 

1970. 

30 
3d AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, three bendlets argent, on a chief of the first, a 

pair of wings displayed fesswise of the second. 

None approved. 

Ex Alis Pugnamus (We Fight on Wings). 

T eal blue and white are the colors formerly used for 

aviation battalions. The diagonal stripes allude to the 

shoulder sleeve insignia of the 3d Infantry Division, to 

which the unit is assigned. The wings represent the mission of the battalion, and their position above the stripes 

represents the aviator flying above the support organizations. The style of the wings is similar to the wings 

associated with Army aviation. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LI NEAGE 

RA 

(3d Infantry Division) 

Constituted 23 April 1957 in the Regular Army as the 3d Aviation 

Company and assigned to the 3d Infantry Division. Activated 1 J uly 1957 

at Fort Benning, Georgia. Reorganized and redesignated 15 July 1963 as 

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Aviation Battalion (organic 

elements constituted 18 April 1963 and activated 15 July 1963). (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Aviation Battalion, reorganized and redesignated 1 June 1964 as Headquarters and Headquarters 

Detachment, 3d Aviation Battalion; Company A inactivated 15 January 

1967 in Germany.) Battalion (less Company A) inactivated 5 June 1967 in 

Germany. Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 3d Aviation 

Battalion, redesignated 21 May 1972 as the Aviation Company, 3d I nfantry Division, and activated in Germany. Redesignated 21 August 1978 as 

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Aviation Battalion (organic 

clements concurrently activated in Germany). 

31 
32 

CAMPAIGN PART ICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

D ECORATIONS 

None. 

3 D AVIAT ION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Edwards, Richard T. "Aviation Tank Killers." Soldiers 32 Ouly 1977): 

18- 19. 

Taylor, Horace G.; Milam, Michael M.; and Ericksen, Scott R. "3d Infantry Division." Infantry 68 Oanuary- February 1978): 18- 22. 
4th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per fess nebuly azure and argent and per chevron 

counterchanged, in chief a pair of wings elevated and 

displayed or. 

On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, issuant 

from a wreath of rice or and palm vert tied of the second a dcmi-dragon gules. 

Vigilantia Aeterna (Eternal Vigilance). 

Ultramarine blue is traditionally associated with aviation 

units. T he curved nebuly partition line is a heraldic representation of clouds. The triangular wedge rising above 

the line stands for Mount Rainier with its peak above 

the clouds. Mount Rainier is a landmark of the unit's 

place of activation. The golden eagle's wings above the 

peak and clouds refer to the battalion's aviation function. 

The oriental dragon symbolizes the unit's wartime service in Vietnam and participation in eleven campaigns. 

Red refers to the Meritorious Unit Commendation; the 

rice alludes to the Republic of Vietnam Civil Action 

Honor Medal, First Class, and the palm represents tlhe 

awards of the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry 

with Palm. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(4th Infantry Division) 

Constituted 1 April 1957 in the Regular Army as the 4th Aviation 

Company, assigned to the 4th Infantry Division, and activated at Fort 

Lewis, Washington. Reorganized and redesignated 1 October 1963 as 

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Aviation Battalion 

(organic elements constituted 21 August 1963 and activated 1 October 

1963). (Company A inactivated 25 April 1966 in Vietnam; activated 1 

September 1966 at Fort Lewis, Washington.) Battalion inactivated 4 

December 1970 at Fort Lewis, Washington. Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Aviation Battalion, redesignated 2 I November 1972 

33 
34 

as the Aviation Company, 4th Infantry Division, and activated at Fort 

Carson, Colorado. Reorganized a nd redesignated 17 March 1980 as 

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Aviation Battalion 

(organic elements concurrently activated). 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Viet11am 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Countemffensive, Phase Ill 

Tel Counteroffensive 

Coumeroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

DECORATIONS 

Tet 59/Counteroffensive 

Summer·-Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Coumer·offensive, Phase VII 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1967- 1968 (4th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 42, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1969 (4th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 3, 

1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (4th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 52, 

1971) 

Re public of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (4th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 

53, 1970) 

4TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

oU?·tl~ Infantry Division. Baton Rouge: Army and Navy Publishing 

Company, 1962. 

Fourth Infantry Division. n.p., 1967. 

4th Infantry Division, Ft. Lewis, Washington. Baton Rouge: Army and Navy 

Publishing Company, 1965. 

4th Infantry Division, Public Information Office. The Fighting Fourth in 

Vietnam, the Third Call to Arms. n. p., 1967. 

Hale, Gerald W. Faces of the Famous Fighting Fourth. Vietnam, 1970. 
5th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: Azure, issuing in fess point a pair of stylized wings displayed argent and overall a fleam abased tenne fimbriated of the second. 

Crest: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a hawk's 

head erased proper gorged by a collar azure, rims studded or and charged with a fleur-de-lis gold. 

Motto: Acute and Alert. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors traditionally associated with aviation units. The wings allude 

to aviation; the fleam, an heraldic lancet, represents the 

combat activities of the unit as a reconnaissance troop 

during World War II. It is also symbolic of the numerical designation and the five battle honors awarded the 

unit for service in World War II. The hawk, noted for 

its keen eyesight and hunting instincts, represents the 

unit's "baptism of fire" as the 5th Reconnaissance T roop, 

Mechanized. The Normandy campaign is symbolized by 

the blue collar and gold £leur-de-lis. T he hawk is particularly a pt as it complements the unit's capabilities and 

history. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (5th Infantry Division) 

Constituted 20 J uly 1940 in the Regular Army as the 5th Cavalry 

Reconnaissance Troop and assigned to the 5th Division (later redesignated as the 5th Infantry Division). Activated I 0 August 1940 at Fort 

Benjamin Harrison, Indiana. Reorganized and redesignated I October 

1943 as the 5th Reconnaissance Troop, Mechanized. Reorganized and 

redesignated 4 March 1946 as the 5th Mechanized Cavalry Reconnaissance T roop. Inactivated 20 September 1946 at Camp Campbell, Kentucky. Redesignated 6 July 1948 as the 5th Reconnaissance Company and 

activated at Fort J ackson, South Carolina. Inactivated 30 April 1950 at 

Fort J ackson, South Carolina. Activated 1 March 1951 at Indiantown 

Military Reservation, Pennsylvania. Inactivated 1 September 1953 at 

35 
36 

Indiantown Gap Military Reservation, Pennsylvania. Activated 25 May 

1954 at Augsburg, Germany. Inactivated 1 June 1957 at Fort Ord, 

California. 

Converted and redesignated 26 January 1962 as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 5th Aviation Battalion (organic elements concurrently constituted). Battalion activated 19 February 1962 at Fort 

Carson, Colorado. (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 5th Aviation Battalion , reorganized and redesignated 12 February 1964 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 5th Aviation Battalion; Company A inactivated 25 April 1966 in Vietnam.) Battalion (less Company 

A) inactivated 24 June 1967 at Fort Carson, Colorado. Headquarters and 

Headquarters Detachment, 5th Aviation Battalion, redesignated 21 july 

1975 as the Aviation Company, 5th Infantry Division, and activated at 

Fort Polk, Louisiana. Reorganized and redesignated 1 September 1982 as 

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 5th Aviation Battalion 

(organic elements concurrently activated). 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

World Wa1' 11-EAME 

Normandy 

Northern France 

Rhineland 

Ardcnnes-Alsace 

Central Europe 

Company A additionally entitled to the following: 

Vietnam 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

5TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Dunn, Edward C. "Red Diamond Goes ROAD. " Army Information Digest 

18 (May 1963): 12- 20. 

Fifth Infantry Division Historical Section. The Fifth Infantry Division in the 

ETO, 1945. Atlanta: Albert Love Enterprises, 1945. 

Hist01ical and Pictorial Review, 5th Infantry Division, United States Army, Fort 

Custe-r, Michigan, 1941. Baton Rouge: Army and Navy Publishing 

Company, 194 1. 

Wascom, Charles L. "The 5th Infantry Division." Infantry 69 (May- June 

1979):14- 19. 
6th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, a mullet of six points volant wings elevated and 

displayed argent between five smaller mullets of the like 

three in chief, two and one, and two in base, one to 

dexter and one to sinister. 

None approved. 

Air Assault. 

Ultramarine blue is traditionally associated with aviation 

units. The large winged star of six points stands for the 

6th Aviation Battalion and also refers to its mission of 

air support to the 6th Infantry Division, whose shoulder 

sleeve insignia is a six-pointed star. The six stars, each 

with six points, allude to the battalion's numerical designation as well as its organization and activation as an 

element of the 6th Infantry Division. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is an adaptation of the shield and motto of the 

coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(inactive) 

Constituted 24 November 1967 in the Regular Army as the 6th Aviation Battalion, assigned to the 6th Infantry Division, and activated at Fort 

Campbell, Kentucky. Inactivated 25 July 1968 at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

6TH AVIATION BATT ALI ON BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

37 
7th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per bend argent and azure, a stylized flight symbol 

surmounted by a telescope bendwise counterchanged 

between in sinister chief a sevenpointed mullet tenne 

and in dexter base a lightning flash bend- sinisterwise 

of the like fimbriated of the first. 

None approved. 

Lucky Seven. 

Teal blue was formerly used for aviation battalions. The 

shield is divided into two parts to represent day and 

night activity. The flight symbol alludes to aviation; the 

telescope symbolizes reconnaissance, surveillance, and 

observation. The mullet refers to providing illumination, 

and the lightning flash represents radio relay. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(7th Infantry Division) 

Constituted 1 July 1957 in the Regular Army as the 7th Aviation 

Company, assigned to the 7th Infantry Division, and activated in Korea. 

Reorganized and redesignated 1 July 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 7th Aviation Battalion (organic elements constituted 

7 June 1963 and activated !July 1963). Battalion inactivated 2 April1971 

at Fort Lewis, Washington. Activated 21 January 1976 at Fort Ord, 

California. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, Streamer embroidered 

KOREA 1957 - 1971 (7th Infantry Division cited; DA GO 50, 1971) 

38 
39 

7TH AVIATION B ATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Brown, Ronald B. "What It's All About." United States Army Aviation Digest 

28 (March 1982):28- 29. 

Waring, Paul C. History of the 7th Infantry (Bayonet) Division. Tokyo: Dai 

Nippon Printing Co., 1967. 
8th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Syrnbolisrn: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Sable, a winged caltrap or above a cross pattee argent. 

None approved. 

To the Sound of the Guns. 

The four points of the caltrap represent infantry, armor, 

and artillery, supported by aviation, also represented by 

the wings. Activation in Germany is symbolized by the 

cross pattee. The eight points indicate the 8th Infantry 

Division to which the unit is assigned. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(8th Infantry Division) 

Constituted 1 August 1957 in the Regular Army as the 8th Aviation 

Company, assigned to the 8th Infantry Division, and activated in Germany. 

Reorganized and redesignated 1 April 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 8th Aviation Battalion (organic elements constituted 

27 March 1963 and activated 1 April 1963). (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 8th Aviation Battalion, reorganized and redesignated 

15 May 1964 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 8th Aviation Battalion.) Battalion inactivated 5 June 1967 in Germany. Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 8th Aviation Battalion, redesignated 

21 February 1973 as the Aviation Company, 8th Infantry Division, and 

acti'vated in Germany. (Company B, 8th Aviation Battalion, activated 1 

March 1977 at Fort Hood, Texas.) Aviation Company, 8th Infantry 

Division, reorganized and redesignated 21 September 1978 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 8th Aviation Battalion (Companies A 

and C concurrently activated). 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORAT IONS 

None. 

40 

8TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
9th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

Per saltire azure and tenne, a broad arrow point to 

chief argent. 

On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a circlet of 

bamboo proper surmounted overall by five feathered 

arrow sha fts or radiating from a bezant at center and 

each charged with the three bendlets at opposite sides of 

the shaft gules. 

Anytime-Anywhere. 

T he broad arrow stands for flight and refers to the 

battalion's function. The central intersection of the background alludes to the state where it was activated in 

1966, Kansas, which has been called the crossroads of 

the nation. T he bamboo circlet, bezant, and feathered 

arrow shafts charged with three red bands, adapted from 

the flag of the Re public of Vietnam, represent the swift 

reaction and pinpoint accuracy needed within the confines of an unprepared landing zone and commeQ1orate 

the battle of Rach Kien near Can Ouoc for which the 

organization received the Valorous Unit Award. The 

five feathe red arrow shafts further allude to the combined group of decorations earned by the battalion. 

DISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(9th Infantry Division) 

Constituted 13 November 1957 in the Regular Army as the 9th Aviation Company and assigned to the 9th Infantry Division. Activated I 

December 1957 at Fort Carson, Colorado. Inactivated 31 January 1962 at 

Fort Carson, Colorado. Redesignated 1 February J 966 as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Detachme nt, 9th Aviation Battalion, and activated at 

Fort Riley, Kansas (organic e lements concurre ntly constituted a nd 

activated). Battalion inactivated 25 September 1969 in Hawaii. Activated 

2 J April 1972 at Fort Lewis, Washington. 

41 
42 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase II I 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Coumeroffensive 

Summer- Fall I 969 

DECORATIONS 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered CAN DUOC (9th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 1968) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1967 - 1969 (9th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 36, 1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1968 (9th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 31, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969 (9th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 59, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1969 (9th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 

59, 1969) 

9TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Branley, Bill. "Blackhawk." Soldiers 37 (July 1982):34-36. 

Chamberlain, E. W. Rebirth of the Ninth. Camp Springs, Md., 1967. 

Dierking, Barbara A.; Love, Donald R. ; and Swartz, Isabelle J., comp. 

History of the 9th Infant?y Division: The Old Reliables. Fort Lewis, 1979. 

Ewell,JulianJ. and Hunt, Ira A.,Jr. Sharpening The Combat Edge. Vietnam 

Studies. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1974. 

Reysen, Frank, ed. Delta Division, Vietnam, 1969. Vietnam, 1969. 

___ . 9th Infantry Division, 1918-1968. Vietnam, 1968. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

lOth AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a blue annulet 

surmounted by a pair of gold wings; overall a black bolt 

barbed and flighted gold. Beneath and crossing in front 

of the bolt a gold scroll inscribed "Soldiers of the Sky" in 

black letters, the ends of the scroll terminating at the 

annulet. 

Symbolism: The wings represent the aviation function. The bolt, 

sometimes called a "quarrel," is a type of arrow used 

with the crossbow; it stands for the military personnel 

transported by the battalion. The annulet, symbol of 

fidelity, refers to the unit's faithfu lness to duty. The bolt 

and the annuler, simulating a one and a zero, refer to 

the battalion's numerical designation. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (bad ge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 21 August 1965 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Detachment, lOth Aviation Battalion. Activated 23 

August 1965 at Fort Benning, Georgia. Redesignated 1 December 1968 

as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, lOth Aviation Battalion. 

Inactivated 30 December 1980 at Fort Lewis, Washington. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase I II 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter-Spring I970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation I I 

43 
44 

DECORATIONS 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered TUY I-lOA VALLEY (lOth 

Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered DAK TO (l Oth Aviation 

Battalion cited; DA GO 73, 1968) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1965- 1966 (lOth Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1966- 1967 (lOth Aviatio n Battalion cited; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1967 (lOth Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 22, 

1968, as amended by DA GO 59, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 (lOth Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 

1969, as amended by DA GO 59, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (lOth Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 6, 

1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (lOth Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 6, 

1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Gold Star, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1970 (lOth Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 5, 

1973) 

10TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

lith AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

DescrijJtion: A silver d istinctive insignia consisting of two silver vertical spears between two silver wings on a blue field all 

above a silver scroll bearing the inscription "Exempla 

Proponere" (To Set Forth Examples) in blue letters. 

Symbolism: The blue field refers to the sky while the silver wings are 

symbolic of aviation. The two silver spears allude to combat readiness and also simulate the number "11," the 

numerical designation of the unit. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nondivisional) 

Constituted 21 August 1965 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Detachment, 11th Aviation Battalion. Activated 23 

August 1965 at Fort Benning, Georgia. Reorganized and redesignated 1 

December 1968 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, lith Aviation Battalion. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Victlll!m 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Coumeroffensive, Phase I I 

Coumcroffensive, J>hase 111 

Tet Coumeroffensivc 

Coumeroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Coumeroffcnsive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Coumeroffcnsivc, Phase V l1 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 

45 
46 

DECORATIONS 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered DAU TIENG-SUOI DA 

(Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 11th Aviation Battalion, 

cited; DA GO 17, 1968, as amended by DA GO 9, 1979) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 11th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 48, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1965 - 1966 (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 11th Aviation Battalion, cited ; DA GO 46, 1968, as amended by DA 

GO 9, 1979) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966-1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 11 th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 22, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967 - 1968 (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 11th Aviation Battalion, cited ; DA GO 21, 1969, as amended by 

DA GO 9, 1979, and DA GO 18, 1979) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

11th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970-1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

11th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974, and DA GO 54, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969 - 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, 11th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 55, 197 1) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 197 1 (11 th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 32, 1973) 

11TH AVIATION B ATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Swank, David W. "The 121st Aviation Co Deploys." Army Aviation 31 (15 

September 1982):119-21. 

Tolson,Johnj. Ainnobility, 1961-1971. Vietnam Studies. Washington: 

Government Printing Office, 1973. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

13th AVIATION BATTALION 

(Guardians) 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a winged sword 

in front of an equilateral triangle with the base of the 

triangle d ivided vertically throughout by a wide blue 

bar, with two areas on each side, the upper portion yellow and the lower portion red, all above a scroll bearing 

the inscription "Shield of the Mekong" in blue letters. 

Symbolism: The winged sword refers to the combat mission of the 

battalion. The equilateral triangle (or delta) alludes to 

the Mekong river delta, Vietnam, the area where the 

organization served, and also relates to the motto "Shield 

of the Mekong." The colors blue, red, and yellow symbolize the three basic combat branches incorporated in 

airmobile warfa,·e: infantry (highly mobile ground troops 

delivered to their objective by air); artillery (aerial rockets and grenades, heavy firepower delivered from the 

air); a nd cavalry (speed and mobility). The vertical 

winged sword and the three colors also allude to " 13," 

the battalion's numerical designation. The blue bar further refers to the Presidential Unit Citation awarded to 

the organization. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 4 August 1964 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Detachment, 13th Aviation Battalion. Activated 5 August 

1964 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Reorganized and redesignated 1 

December 1968 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 13th Aviation Battalion. Inactivated 15 October 1979 at Fort Hood, Texas. 

47 
48 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Viettuwz 

Advisory 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase III 

Tel Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

DECORATIONS 

Tel 69/Coumeroffensive 

Summer-Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sancwary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 

Cease-Fire 

Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered CHUONG 

THIEN PROVINCE (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 13th 

Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 45, 1969) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered CHUONG THIEN PROVINCE (13th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 34, 1966) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966 (13th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 46, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 13th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 22, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 (13th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

13th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 52, 1971, and DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

13th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

13TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Carson, FrankL. and Scruggs, Owen D. "Knights Train for the Night." 

United States Army Aviation Digest 28 (September 1982):3- 5. 

Grayson, Stan. "Tiger Surprise." Army Digest 26 (January 1971):8-9. 

Spore, John B. "The U.S. Army In Vietnam: Continuous Pressure On 

The Enemy's Strength." Army 16 (June 1966):66-74. 

Tolson, John J. Ainnobility 1961-1971. Vietnam Studies. Washington: 

Government Printing Office, 1973. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

14th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a ring containing a red and blue disc horizontally divided by a nebuly 

partition line, the ring emerging from a blue triangle 

apex in base and radiating therefrom three flashes, the 

center flash extending to the top inner rim of the disc 

and above the ring encircling the upper half a blue arc 

inscribed "Versatility" in silve r letters. 

Symbolism: The battalion's readiness to furnish troop and cargo lift 

support in forward combat areas is represented by the 

nebuly divided red and blue disc. T he ring alludes to 

the reconnoitering and observation functions. T he 

triangle, simulating an arrowhead, and the radiant 

flashes refer to the combat assault role of the battalion's 

airmobile companies. 

f LAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (bad ge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nondivisional) 

Constituted 2 September 1964 in the Regular Army as Headquarte rs 

and Headquarters Detachme nt, 14th Aviation Battalion. Activated 3 September 1964 at Fort Benning, Georgia. Reorganized and redesignated I 

December 1968 as Headquarters and Headquarte rs Company, 14th Aviation Battalion. Reorganized and redesignated 16 August 1979 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 14th Aviation Battalion. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

Advisory 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase lll 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

TeL 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation 1 

49 
50 

DECORATIONS 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered CHU LAl (14th Aviation 

Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 1970) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered KHAM DUC CAMP (14th 

Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 37, 1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1967 Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

14th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 22, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 (14th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

14th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 42, 1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM FEB- MAR 197 1 (14th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 

42, 1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM APR-JUN 1971 (Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, 14th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

14TH AVIATION BATT ALI ON BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Goodman, Jeffrey D., ed. The 16th Aviation GroujJ (Combat) ChuLai, Vietnam, 

1970. n.p., 1970. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

16th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a falcon perched 

on a rest and encircled with a lure, all above a scroll 

bearing the motto "Parati-ResfJondere" (Ready to Respond). 

Symbolism: The aerial aspects of the 16th Aviation Battalion are 

symbolized by the falcon . The lure (an object used to 

recall falcons) and the falcon's rest simulate the numerical "16," the organization's designation. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

L INEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 5 August 1963 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 16th Aviation Battalion. Activated 26 August 

1963 in Germany. Reorganized and redesignated 25 June 1964 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 16th Aviation Battalion. Reorganized and redesignated 6 June 1967 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 16th Aviation Battalion. Inactivated 18 August 1972 in 

Germany. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

16TH AVIAT ION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

51 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

18th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a pair of wings 

conjoined and elevated containing between the wings 

upon a blue field arched at the top a sheaf of five startipped arrows bound by a ribbon, the stars forming an 

arc and the bottom of the arrows extending over the 

base of the wings; upon a silver scroll encircling the base 

the inscription "Swift Mobility" in black letters. 

Symbolism: The raised wings and the arched blue area representing 

the sky indicate the battalion's readiness to provide swift 

air transportation. T he five star-tipped arrows allude to 

the five campaign honors awarded the organization for 

service in World War II. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 17 June 1943 in the Army of the United States as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 8th Quartermaster Troop Transport Battalion. Activated 25 August 1943 at Camp McCain, Mississippi. 

Reorganized and redesignated 30 November 1943 as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Detachment, 8th Quartermaster Battalion, Mobile. Converted and redesignated 1 August 1946 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 8th Transportation Corps Truck Battalion. Redesignated 20 July 194 7 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 8th 

Transportation Truck Battalion. Inactivated 20 March 1948 in Germany. 

Redesignated 19 February 1954 as Headqu.arters and Headquarters 

Detachment, 8th Transportation Battalion, and allotted to the Regular 

Army. Activated I April 1954 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Converted 

and redesignated 25 May 1965 as Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, 18th Aviation Battalion. Inactivated 6 September 1972 in 

Germany. 

52 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

World War fl 

Normandy 

Northern France 

Rhineland 

Ardennes-Alsace 

CenLral Europe 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

18TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

53 

Avery, Maurice C. "USAREUR's 8th Transportation Battalion." A-rmy 

Aviation Magazine 10 (June 1961): 361- 63. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT 

19th AVIATION BATTALION 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a blue sky composed of three cloud shapes enclosing a chevron the 

arms tapered to points and supported by two roundels 

side by side each divided saltirewise with orange vertically and blue horizontally, the colors separated by two 

four-bladed rotors; supporting the above a scroll bearing the motto "Mobilitas" (Mobility) in blue letters. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors used 

for aviation units. The tapered silver chevron represents the fixed wing and the two discs the rotary wing 

aircraft, both types used by the battalion in carrying out 

its mission. The blue area refers to sky and clouds. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nondivisional) 

Constituted 28 May 1964 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Detachment, 19th Aviation Battalion. Activated 1 July 1964 

at Fort Richardson, Alaska. Reorganized and redesignated 31 March 

1969 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 19th Aviation 

Battalion. Inactivated 28 January 1972 at Fort Richardson, Alaska. 

Redesignated 30 June 1973 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 19th Aviation Battalion, and activated in Korea. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

19TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

"Rock Haul." United States Army Aviation Digest 24 (December 1978):22. 

54 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

20th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a white-capped 

blue cone, apex at the top, bearing a pair of conjoined 

white wings elevated and upper tips arched around a 

gold disc all in front of a light blue cloud symbol; across 

the top surmounting all a doubled gold scroll bearing 

the inscription "Peak of" above, and "Performance" 

below in blue letters. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors used 

for aviation. The battalion's activation in Colorado is 

represented by the white-capped mountain (alluding to 

Pike's Peak) extending above the clouds, and the gold 

disc is taken from the Colorado state flag. The scroll 

arched across the peak and the motto connote the spirit 

of the unit. The elevated wings signify the unit's readiness for swift performance of its mission. The wings and 

the disc allude to the numerical designation of the unit. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 18 Aprill967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 20th Aviation Battalion. Activated 25 July 1967 

at Fort Carson, Colorado. Inactivated 15 May 1970 at Fort Carson, 

Colorado. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

20TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

55 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

21st AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of an upright symbol for man on a blue area between a silver wingspread 

and an orange enarched band scalloped on the top edge 

from wing tip to wing tip, bearing the inscription "Peace 

and War" in silver letters. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors of 

aviation units. The design represents the command and 

supervision of three to seven transport aircraft and/or 

helicopter companies, with the blue area enclosed by the 

wingspread and the enarched band representing the 

area of control, and the symbol for man reflecting the 

personnel and administrative factors. The scalloped edge 

simulating a parachute and a wheel refers to the paradrop, landing and mobility aspects of the unit. The wings 

symbolize fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft employed by 

the unit. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 18 April 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 21st Aviation Battalion. Activated 24June 1967 

at Fort Riley, Kansas. Inactivated 22 November 1971 at Fort .Sill, Oklahoma. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

56 

21ST AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

22d AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a pair of black 

upright wings, with tips forming an arch at the top, and 

conjoined in base, enclosing and supporting a white cone, 

apex at the top, charged with two red horizontal bars, 

and above the cone three blue stars one above two in 

triangle, and on a gold scroll encircling the sides a nd 

base of the wings the inscription "Proud and Professional" in blue letters. 

Symbolism: The uplifted supporting wings and stars denote the 

readiness and capability of the battalion to perform its 

mission. T he unit's activation at Fort Lewis, Washington, 

is indicated by the red bars on the white background 

and the stars which allude to the coat of arms of George 

Washington for whom the state was named. The black 

wings refer to the state bird, the willow goldfinch, and 

the white cone indicates the mountains of Washington. 

The bars and wings also allude to the numerical designation of the battalion. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 18 April 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 22d Aviation Battalion. Activated 24 June 1967 

at Fort Lewis, Washington. Inactivated 15 May 1970 at Fort Lewis, 

Washington. 

57 
58 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

22D AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
24th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

CTest: 

Motto: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, a pile or bearing three pheons sable. 

None approved. 

Ever Watchful. 

Symbolism: Teal blue was formerly used for aviation battalions. The 

pheons refer to the unit's participation in four assault 

landings during World War II and to its unit decorations. 

The yellow used in connection with the pheons ind icates 

that the awards and honors were for service as a cavalry 

unit. 

DIST INCT IVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(24th Infantry Division) 

Constituted 28 October 1942 in the Regular Army as the 24th Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop and assigned to the 24th Infantry Division. 

Activated 3 November 1942 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Reorganized 

and redesignated 13 July 1944 as the 24th Reconnaissance T r oop, 

Mechanized. Reorganized and redesignated 10 October 1945 as the 24th 

Mechanized Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop. Reorganized and redesignated 20 March 1949 as the 24th Reconnaissance Company. 

Inactivated 5 June 1958; concurrently, converted and redesignated 

as the 24th Aviation Company, an element of the 24th Infantry Division. 

Activated 1 July 1958 at Augsburg, Germany. Reorganized and redesignated 1 February 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

24th Aviation Battalion (organic elements constituted 21 January 1963 

and activated 1 February 1963). Battalion inactivated 5 June 1967 in 

Germany. Activated 21 September 1975 at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION C REDIT 

World War /l-AP 

New Guinea (with arrowhead) 

Leyte (with arrowhead) 

Luzon (with arrowhead) 

Southern Philippines (with arrowhead) 

Korean Wm· 

UN Defensive 

UN Offensive 

CCF Intervention 

1'irst UN Counteroffensive 

CCF Spring Offensive 

UN Summet·-FaU Offensive 

Second Korean Winter 

Korea, Summer .1953 

59 
60 

DECORATIONS 

Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered DEFENSE 

OF KOREA (24th Infantry Division cited; DA GO 45, 1950) 

Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, Streamer embroidered 17 

OCTOBER 1944 TO 4 JULY 1945 (24th Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop 

cited; DA GO 47, 1950) 

Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, Streamer embroidered 

PYONGTAEK (24th Reconnaissance Company cited; DA GO 35, 1951) 

24TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Barringer, William W., ed. 24th Infantry Division, Victory! n.p., 1953. 

Haas, W. J ., ed. The 24th lnfant'ry "Victory" Division in NATO, 1962. Information Office, 24th Infantry Division, 1962. 

Harvey, Lynn C. 24th Infantry Division (Mechanized), 1963 ROAD Reorganization Day. Germany, 1963. 

Heard, Troy R., ed. The Victory Division 1941 - 1964; Organization Day, 

I October 1964. n.p., 1964. 

Koons, William B. The 24th Infantry Division: A Brief History. Kyoto, j apan: 

Benrido Co., 1960. 

Swindell, Archie C. 24th Infantry Division: Follow Me. Special Taro Leaf 

Historical Edition. Reactivation Day, 1960. Germany, 1960. 

24th Infantry Division, Information Section. 24th Infantry Division, 16th 

Anniversary. Tokyo: Tosho Printing Co., 1957. 

The Victory Division Taro Leaf 1959 Reactivation Day. Augsburg, Germany: 

Hieronymous Muehlberger, 1959. 
25th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, in saltire a lightning flash or and a wing elevated 

and displayed argent. 

On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, and issuing 

from behind a representation of"Diamond Head" sable 

a winged oriental demi-dragon rampant with wings 

addorsed or armed and garnished gules langued and 

spined vert bearing on the sinister wing a mullet of five 

points of the like. 

Lele Makou No Na Puali (We Fly for the Troops). 

Teal blue and yellow were formerly used for aviation 

units. The eagle's wing over the lightning flash represents the aviation surveillance and direction over the 

penetration, speed, and firepower of the 25th Infantry 

Division. "Diamond Head" is emblematic of Oahu, 

Hawaii, the unit's home and place of activation. The red 

and gold dragon alludes to the Republic of Vietnam 

where the organization participated in twelve campaigns 

receiving seven decorations represented by the star. 

"Diamond Head" also simulates a delta, a star traditionally identifies a capital city; together they refer to the 

Saigon and delta areas in Vietnam and the organization 's 

two Valorous Unit Awards. The red delineation and 

claws represent the two Meritorious Unit Commendations awarded the unit. The colors gold and red denote 

the awards of the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, and the red and green represent the 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First 

Class. 

DIST INCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

(25th Infantry Division) 

Constituted 1 February 1957 in the Regular Army as the 25th Aviation Company, assigned to the 25th Infantry Division, and activated in 

Hawaii. Reorganized and redesignated 12 August 1963 as Headquarters 

61 
62 

and Headquarters Company, 25th Aviation Battalion (organic elements 

constituted 21 June 1963 and activated 12 August 1963). 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vi tnan~ 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase 11 

Counteroffensive, Phase Ill 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive , Phase V 

DECORATIONS 

Counteroffensive, Phase Vl 

Tet 69/Counteroffcnsive 

Summer- fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase Vll 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered 1-10 BO WOODS (25th 

Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered TAY NlNH- HAU NGHIA 

(25th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 48, 1971) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1966 - 1967 (25th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 66, 1968, as amended 

by DA GO 42, 1969, and DA GO 43, 1969) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1968 (25th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 36, 1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1968 (25th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 48, 

1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1968- 1970 (25th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 5, 

1973) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1970 (25th Aviation Battalion cited; DA 

GO 5 1, 1971) 

Company B additionally entitled to Presidential Unit Citation, 

Streamer embroidered TA Y NINH PROVINCE (Company B, 25th Aviation 

Battalion, cited; DA GO 14, 1973) 

25TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Burns, John C., ed. 1969: Vietnam. The U.S. 25th Infantry Division, October 

I968-December 1969. Tropic Lightning Association, 1970. 

Burns, J ohn G. and Berger, William F., eds. Tropic Lightning, A History of 

the 25th Infantry Division. Tokyo: Dai Nippon Printing Company, L 970. 

Moore, Joseph B., J r. "Accent on Mobility." Army Information Digest 24 

(February 1969):10- 12. 

Puchalski, R. Vincent, ed. The 25th's 25th . .. in Combat, I Octobe?·1941 - 1 

October 1966, 25th Infantry Division. Doraville, Georgia: Albert Love 

Enterprises, 1966. 

Rottman, Larry, ed. The 25th Infantry Division "Tropic Lightning" I October 

1966- 1 October 1967. Doraville, Georgia: Albert Love Enterprises, 

1967. 

T1·opic Lightning, A History of the 25th Infantry Division. Vietnam, 1969? 

Tropic Lightning, A History of the 25th Infantry Division. Vietnam, 1970. 
26TH AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Argent, on a fess wavy azure between in chief four caltrops fesswise sable and in base a powder horn of the 

like, a bezant. 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida Army National 

Guard, placed on center, and on dexter and sinister 

underneath, in the order in which the states were admitted to the Union: 

Connecticut: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, 

a grape vine supported and fructed proper. 

Massachusetts: On a wreath of the colors, argent and 

azure, a dexter arm embowed, clothed blue and ruffed 

white, proper the hand grasping a broad sword argent 

the pommel and hilt or. 

Florida: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, an 

alligator statant proper. 

Faith, Flight, Fidelity. 

The wavy blue band, symbolizing water, and the yellow 

disc, taken from the shoulder sleeve insignia of the New 

England defense sector, allude to the battalion's mission 

in the early part of World War 11. The four caltrops, an 

ancient weapon, allude to the four battle honors received 

for service in Northern France, Rhineland, ArdennesAlsace, and Central Europe. The caltrops, simulating 

aircraft, further allude to the organization's present 

designation as an aviation battalion. T he powder horn, 

taken from the arms of the 181st Infantry, refers to the 

organization of which it was an element in World War 

II. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a caltrop surmounted by a black powder horn above an entwining 

three-segmented blue scroll, the top two inscribed "Faith" 

and "Flight," the bottom segment inscribed "Fidelity" in 

silver lette rs. 

63 
64 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

ARNG 

(26th Infantry Division) 

Organized and federally recognized 21 February 1922 in the Massachusetts National Guard at Framingham as Headquarters Company, 1st 

Battalion, 104th Infantry. Redesignated 1 April 1923 as Headquarters 

Company, 2d Battalion, 181st Infantry, an element of the 26th Division 

(later redesignated as the 26th Infantry Division). Disbanded 6 February 

1934 at Framingham. Reorganized and federally recognized 8 March 

1934 at Fitchburg. Reorganized and redesignated· 1 May 1940 as Headquarters Detachment, 2d Battalion, 181st Infantry.' Inducted into federal 

service 16 January 1941 at Fitchburg. Reorganized and redesignated 6 

July 1942 as Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 181st Infantry. Inactivated 8 February 1944 at Fort Dix, New Jersey. Consolidated 8July 1946 

with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 328th Infantry (see ANNEX), 

and consolidated unit designated as Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 

18lst Infantry. Reorganized and federally recognized 16 April 1947 at 

Fitchburg. 

Converted and redesignated 1 May 1959 as Headquarters Company, 

226th Transportation Battalion, an element of the 26th Infantry Division. 

Converted and redesignated 1 March 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 26th Aviation Battalion, and remained assigned to 

the 26th Infantry Division (organic elements concurrently organized from 

existing units). (Company A allotted 16 December 1967 to the Connecticut Army National Guard; location of Headquarters changed 1 January 

1974 to Otis Air Force Base, Massachusetts; Companies C and D allotted 

1 September 1978 to the Florida Army National Guard; Company A 

redesignated 30 September 1978 as Company Band Company A allotted 

to the Massachusetts and New Hampshire Army National Guard.) 

ANNEX 

Organized in January 1922 in the Organized Reserves in Florida as 

Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 328th Infantry, an element of the 

82d Division. Inactivated 13 February 1942 and relieved from assignment to the 82d Division. Activated 12 February 1943 in the Army of the 

United States at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, as an element of the 26th 

Infantry Division. Inactivated 29 December 1945 at Camp Myles Standish, 

Massachusetts, and relieved from assignment to the 26th Infantry Division. 

Home Area: Massachusetts (less elements in Connecticut, Florida, and 

New Hampshire) 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Worut War 11 

Northern France 

Rhineland 

Ardennes-Aisace 

Central EUI·ope 

65 

Company A (Otis Air Force Base) additionally entitled to the following: 

Civil Wm· 

Manassas 

Antietam 

Fredericksburg 

Wi.lderness 

Spotsylvania 

Cold Harbor 

Petersburg 

North Carolina 1862 

Tennessee 1863 

War with Spain 

Puerto Rico 

Wo1·Ul War I 

St. Mihiel 

Meuse-Argonne 

Lorraine 1918 

Company E (Otis Air Force Base) additionally entitled to the following: 

Wm· with SfJain 

Puerto Rico 

WorUI Wa.r I 

St. Mihiel 

Meuse-Argonne 

Lorraine 1918 

DECORATIONS 

Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered LUXEMBOURG (2d Battalion, 328th Infantry, cited; WD GO 47, 1947) 

Cited in the Order of the Day of the Belgian Army for action in the 

ARDENNES (328th Infantry cited; DA GO 43, 1950) 

26TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Anderson, Ralph A., Jr. Handcar White: A History of the Second Battalion, 

328th Infantry, EurofJean Theater of Operations. Hor Vlatavice, Czedwslovakia, 1945. 

History of the Three Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Regiment of Infantry, EightySecond Division, American Expeditionary Forces, United States Army. Atlanta: 

Foote and Davies, 1922. 

The History of the 26th Yankee Division, 1917-1919, 1941-1945. Salem: 

Deschamps Bros., 1955. 

Holden, Frank A. Wm- Memories. Athens, Georgia: Athens Book Co., c. 

1922. 

Pauley, J ohn L., et al. comp. and eels. Histmy of the 26th infantry Division in 

World War II. Wels, Austria: Buch-und-Kunstclruckerei "Welsermuehl,'' 1945. 

Theise, J erome J., eel. Histmy of the Three Hundred Twenty-Eighth Infantry 

Regiment. Wels, Austria: Verlagsclruckerei Wels, 1945. 

"26th Aviation Battalion Mans Airborne Bucket Brigade." National Guard 

35 (June 198I):F2. 
28th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per fess azure and or, in chief a demi-pegasus rampant 

of the second and in base an arch gules. 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Pennsylvania, Virginia, and North Carolina Army National Guard placed on center, and on dexter and sinister underneath, in the order in which the states were 

admitted to the Union: 

Pennsylvania: On a wreath of the colors, or and azure, a 

lion rampant gum·dant proper holding in dexter paw a 

naked scimitar argent hilted or and in sinister an escutcheon argent on a fess sable three plates. 

Virginia: On a wreath of the colors, or and azure, "Virtus 

the genius of the Commonwealth dressed as an Amazon, 

resting on a spear with one hand and holding a sword in 

the other; and treading on Tyranny, rep resented by a 

man prostrate, a crown falling from his head, a broken 

chain in his left hand and a scourge in his right" all 

proper. 

North Carolina: On a wreath of the colors, or and azure, 

a hornet's nest hanging from a bough beset with thirteen hornets all proper. 

Winged Support. 

The demi-pegasus alludes to and commemorates the 

badge of the former 28th Division Aviation. The arch 

symbolizes aerial protective surveillance, and the keystone in the arch refers to Pennsylvania, the home state. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

ARNG 

(28th Infantry Division) 

Constituted I June 1959 in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard as 

the 28th Aviation Company and assigned to the 28th Infantry Division; 

concurrently, organized and federally recognized at New Cumberland. 

Reorganized and redesignated 1 April 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 28th Aviation Battalion, and remained assigned to 

66 
67 

the 28th Infantry Division (organic elements concurrently organized from 

existing units). (Company A allotted 1 February 1968 to the Virginia 

Army National Guard; Company A reallotted l April1975 to the Pennsylvania Army National Guard and location of Headquarters concurrently 

changed to Harrisburg; Companies C and D allotted 1 September 1978 

to the Virginia and North Carolina Army National Guard, respectively.) 

Home Area: Pennsylvania (less elements in North Carolina and Virginia) 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Company A (Harrisburg) entitled to the following: 

War with Spain 

Pueno Rico 

World Wat I 

Champagne-Marne 

Aisne-Marne 

Oise-Aisne 

Ypres-Lys 

Meuse-Argonne 

Champagne 19.18 

Lorraine 1918 

World War /I 

Northern France 

Company B (Reading) entitled to the following: 

W m· with Sj1ain 

Puerto Rico 

World War·/ 

Champagne-Marne 

Aisne-Marne 

Oise-Aisne 

Meuse-At·gonne 

Champagne 1918 

Lorraine 191 8 

World War /1 - EAME 

Naples-Foggia (with arrowhead) 

Tunisia 

Rome-Arno 

Rhineland 

Korean WmUN Summet·-Fall Offensive 

Second Korean Wimer 

Company C (Sandston, Virginia) entitled to the following: 

Civil Wm· (Confederate Service) 

First Manassas 

Peninsula 

Sharpsburg 

Fredericksburg 

Chancellorsville 

Gettysburg 

Wilderness 

Spotsylvania 

Cold Harbor 

Petersburg 

Shenandoah 

Appomattox 

Virginia 1861 

Virginia 1862 

Virginia 1863 

Virginia 1864 

Maryland 1862 

Maryland 1863 

Pennsylvania 1863 

World War 11- EAME 

Normandy (with anowhead) 

Northern France 

Rhineland 

Central Europe 

Company D (Morrisville, North Carolina) entitled to the following: 

World Wm· 11- EAME 

Normandy 

Northern France 

Rhineland 

Ardennes-Aisace 

Central Europe 
68 

DECORATIONS 

Company B (Reading) entitled to Republic of Korea Presidential Unit 

Citation, Streamer embroidered DEFENSE OF KOREA (213th Antiaircraft 

Artillery Gun Battalion cited; DA GO 51, 1957) 

Company D (Morrisville, North Carolina) entitled to Meritorious Unit 

Commendation, Streamer embroidered UNITED STATES and UNITED 

KINGDOM (Service Company, 120th Infantry, cited; GO 129, 30th Infantry Division, 1945) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered UNITED 

KINGDOM and FRANCE (Service Company, !20th Infantry, cited; GO 129, 

30th Infantry Division, 1945) 

Belgian Fourragere 1940 (120th Infantry cited; DA GO 43, 1950) 

Cited in the Order of the Day of the Belgian Army for action in 

BELGIUM (!20th Infantry cited; DA GO 43, 1950) 

Cited in the Order of the Day of the Belgian Army for action in the 

ARDENNES (120th Infantry cited; DA GO 43, 1950) 

28TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT 

31st AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a light blue disc 

surmounted by a white square with corners outside th e 

disc and each side indented at center by a single nebuly; 

and centered on the square a scarlet saltire couped and 

its u pper arms surmounted by a pair of silver wings 

displayed and conjoined and overall at center a yellow 

six-pointed star with two points up; in base, draped from 

the corners of the square a silver scroll inscribed in scarlet letters with the words "Where Eagles Dare." 

Symbolism: The silver wings are symbolic of the unit's mission. T h e 

blue disc and white nebuly areas allude to the sky and 

clouds. The red saltire on white, suggested by the state 

flag of Alabama, and the star refer to Montgomery, 

Alabama, the unit's headquarters. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

ARNG 

(Alabama) 

Organized and federally recognized 16 March 1953 in the Alabama 

Army National Guard at Montgomery as Headquarters Battery, 104th 

Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion (NGUS). Reorganized and redesignated 

15 j une 1954 as Headquarters Battery, 104th Antiaircraft Artille ry 

Battalion. Converted and redesignated 2 May 1959 as Headquarters 

Battery, 1st Howitzer Battalion, 203d Artillery, an element of the 31st 

Infantry Division. 

Converted and redesignated 15 April1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 31st Aviation Battalion , and remained assigned to th e 

31st Infantry Division (Company A allotted 1 May 1963 to the Mississippi 

Army National Guard; Company B reorganized and redesignated 15 

April 1963 from the 31st Aviation Company [Alabama part] at Montgomery). Battalion (less Company A) ordered into active federal service 

11 June 1963 at Montgomery; released 23 June 1963 from active federal 

69 
70 

service and reverted to state control; ordered into active federal service 

10 September 1963 at Montgomery; released 12 September 1963 from 

active federal service and reverted to state control. Battalion broken up 

15 J anuary- 15 February 1968 and its elements reorganized and redesignated as follows: Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment on 15 

J anuary 1968 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 31st Aviation Battalion, and relieved from assignment to the 3 1st Infantry Division; 

(Company A on 15 February 1968 as Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, !31st Aviation Battalion; Company Bon 15 J anuary 1968 as 

the 133d Medical Company- hereafter separate lineages). Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 31st Aviation Battalion, reorganized 

and redesignated 20 October 1978 as Headquarters and Headquarters 

Detachment, 31st Aviation Battalion. 

HomeStation:Mon~omery 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

3 1ST AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
38th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

SymboLism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per pale argent and azure, wings erect conjoined below 

a saltire within an annulet all counterchanged. 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Indiana, Missouri, Arkansas, and Michigan Army National Guard placed from dexter to sinister, two above 

and two underneath, in the order in which the states 

were admitted to the Union: 

Indiana: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a 

demi-lion rampant argent, holding in dexter paw a laurel branch vert. 

Missouri: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a 

grizzly bear rampant proper. 

Arkansas: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, 

above two sprays of apple blossoms proper a diamond 

argent charged with four mullets azure, one in upper 

point and three in lower, within a bordure of the last 

bearing twenty-five mullets of the second. 

Michigan: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a 

griffin segreant or. 

Eye of the Cyclone. 

Teal blue and white were formerly used for aviation 

battalions. The wings symbolize flight operations. The 

annulet is used to allude to an eyelet, an "item" for 

securing, and a "place" for observing. The saltire cross 

stands for the state of Indiana which is called "The Crossroads of America." An "X" has long been used to make 

a definite location; in this connection the saltire also 

refers to the battalion's reconnaissance activities. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

71 
72 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

ARNG 

(38th Infantry Division) 

Organized and federally recognized 1 February 1959 in the Indiana 

Army National Guard at Indianapolis as the 38th Aviation Company, an 

element of the 38th Infantry Division. Reorganized and redesignated 1 

March 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 38th Aviation 

Battalion, and remained assigned to the 38th Infa ntry Division (organic 

elements concurrently reorganized from existing units). (Company A 

allotted 1 February 1968 to the Michigan Army National Guard; location 

of Headquarters changed 1 November 1971 to Shelbyville; Company C 

allotted 1 September 1978 to the Arkansas Army National Guard; Company A redesignated 30 September 1978 as Company B, Company D 

allotted to the Missouri Army National Guard, and Companies A and E 

allotted to the Indiana Army National Guard.) 

Home Area: Indiana (less elements in Arkansas, Michigan, and Missouri) 

CAMPAIGN P ARTICIPAT ION CREDIT 

Company D (Warrensburg, Missouri) entitled to the following:: 

World Wat·ff- EAME 

Normandy 

Nonhern France 

Rhineland 

Ardcnncs-Aisace 

Cenu·al Europe 

DECORAT IONS 

None. 

38TH AVIATION B ATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
40th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Orest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per saltire azure and tenne, in chief two broad arrows 

and in base two mullets fesswise, in the flanks a dexter 

and a sinister wing elevated, all argent. 

T hat for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

California, Colorado, and Arizona Army National Guard 

placed on center, and on dexter and sinister underneath, 

in the order in which the states were admitted to the 

Union: 

California: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, 

the setting sun behind a grizzly bear passant on a grassy 

field all proper. 

Colorado: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a 

fasces paleways proper with ribbon of red, white, and 

blue. 

Arizona: O n a wreath of the colors, argent and azu re, a 

giant cactus proper. 

Cura et Perfectio (Accuracy and Perfection). 

Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors associated with aviation units. T he two broad arrows denote 

the Southern Philippines and Luzon campaign assault 

landings, and the stars symbolize the Bismarck Archipelago and Leyte campaigns of World War II. T he triangular shapes, suggested by the Philippine presiden tial flag, 

allude to the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation 

awarded to an element of the battalion for the above 

campaigns. The wings allude to the unit's mission. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia consists of elements of the shield and motto 

of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND H ONORS 

ARNG 

LINEAGE (40th Infantry Division) 

Constituted IO August 1978 in the California Army National Guard 

as the 40th Aviation Battalion and assigned to the 40th Infantry Division. 

Organized 1 September 1978 (less Companies B and D) from existing 

units with Headquarters at Stockton (Company B concurrently allotted to 

73 
74 

the Arizona Army National Guard and Company D allotted to the Colorado Army National Guard). 

Home Area: California (less elements in Arizona and Colorado) 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Headquarters Company (Stockton) entitled to the following: 

World Wm· fl- AP 

Bismarck Archipelago 

Leyte 

Luzon (with arrowhead) 

Southern Philippines (with arrowhead) 

DECORATIONS 

Headquarters Company (Stockton) entitled to Philippine Presidential 

Unit Citation, Streamer embroidered 17 OCTOBER 1944 TO 4 JULY 1945 

(40th Infantry Division cited; DA GO 47, 1950) 

40TH AVIATION BATT ALI ON BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
42d AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, on a pile in point argent a rainbow of gules, or 

and the first, and in base a pair of wings conjoined in 

leure of the second. 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

New York and Kentucky Army National Guard placed 

from dexter to sinister in the order in which the states 

were admitted to the Union: 

New Yorh: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, 

the full rigged ship "Half Moon" all proper. 

Kentucky: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, 

within a garland of trumpet vine clasped hands clothed 

at the wrists all proper. 

Over the Rainbow. 

The colors white and blue represent cloud and sky, and 

the silver wings allude to the function of flight. The 

wedge shape is suggestive of support, and the rainbow 

represents the 42d Infantry Division of which the battalion is a component. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia consists of elements of the shield and motto 

of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE 

L INEAGE AND HONORS 

ARNG 

(42d Infantry Division) 

Constituted 26 April 1954 in the New York Army National Guard as 

the Light Aviation Section, Headquarters Company, 42d Infantry Division. 

Organized and federally recognized 19 May 1954 at Amityville. Reorganized and redesignated 16 March 1959 as the 42d Aviation Company, 

an element of the 42d Infantry Division; location concurrently changed 

tO Freeport. Location changed 15 July 1959 to Huntington Station. Reorganized and redesignated 15 April 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 42d Aviation Battalion, and remained assigned to the 42d 

Infantry Division; location concurrently changed to Freeport (organic 

elements concurrently organized from existing units). Battalion ordered 

into active federal service 24 March 1970 at home stations; released 30 

75 
76 

March 1970 from active federal service and reverted to state control. 

(Company C allotted 1 September 1978 to the Kentucky Army National 

Guard.) 

Home Area: New York (less element in Kentucky) 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Company D (Albany) entitled to the following: 

Civil Wm· 

Miss.issippi Rivet· 

W&rld Wm·l 

St. Mihiel 

Ypres-Lys 

Somme Offensive 

Flanders 19 J 8 

Wm-ld War ll- E!IME 

Normandy 

DECORATIONS 

Northern France 

Rhineland 

Ardennes-Aisace 

Central Europe 

Wodd War fl- AP 

Eastern Mandates (with arrowhead) 

Western Pacific 

Ryukyus 

Company D (Albany) entitled to Belgian Fourragere 1940 (80 1st 

Tank Destroyer Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 1950) 

Cited in the Order of the Day of the Belgian Army for action at the 

SIEGFRIED LINE (80lst Tank Destroyer Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 1950) 

Cited in the O rder of the Day of the Belgian Army for action on 

ELSENBORN CREST (80lst Tank Destroyer Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 

1950) 

42D AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
45th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, a pale or overall a winged banner stone argent 

bound fesswise with five cords tenne. 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Oklahoma Army National Guard: On a wreath of the 

colors, or and azure, an Indian's head with war bonnet 

all proper. 

We Try Harder. 

The "winged banner stone" was an Indian device used 

as the balance of a throwing stick, an apparatus used to 

hurl missiles through the air. It refers to both the aviation support function and the home area of the unit. 

Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors used 

for aviation units. The four points of the stone and the 

five cords refer to the battalion's numerical designation. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield, crest, and motto of the coat of 

anns. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

ARNG 

(Oklahoma) 

Constituted 27 April 1982 in the Oklahoma Army National Guard as 

the 45th Aviation Battalion. Organized and federally recognized 1 May 

1982 at Sperry. 

Home Station: Sperry 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

45TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

77 
47th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per fess arched azure and gules, in chief a hawk's head 

erased argent and in base three piles reversed in point 

or, between flanches invected of the third. 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota Army National 

Guard placed from dexter to sinister, two above and two 

underneath , in the order in which the states were admitted to the Union: 

Illinois: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, 

upon a grassy field the blockhouse of old Fort Dearborn 

proper. 

Iowa: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a 

hawk's head erased proper. 

Wisconsin: O n a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a 

badger couchant proper. 

Minnesota: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, 

a sheaf of wheat proper. 

Lyncei Agminis (The Hawk-eyed Men of the Combat 

Troops). 

The hawk is used to imply reconnaissance and ale rt 

watchfulness. The blue is for the sky and the flanches 

represent clouds. The arched per fess simulates a globe's 

curvature and alludes to the earth. The three piles are 

used to represent rays or beams of light thus alluding to 

communication (signal). The blue and white are used to 

refer to the infantry; red to the artillery and engineers; 

and yellow to the armor, alluding to the combat support 

furnished by the aviation battalion. 

DIST INCTIVE I NSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

ARNG 

(47th Infantry Division) 

Organized and federally recognized 30 .January 1919 in the Minnesota National Guard at St. Paul as Company D, 6th Infantry. Redesignated 1 December 1923 as Company D, 206th Infantry, an element of 

the 34th Division. Converted and redesignated 1 July 1940 as Battery D, 

78 
79 

216th Coast Artillery, and relieved from assignment to the 34th Division. 

Inducted into federal service 6 J anuary 1941 at St. Paul. Reorganized 

and redesignated 10 September 1943 as Battery D, 774th Antiaircraft 

Artillery Gun Battalion. Inactivated 8 June 1944 at Camp Howze, Texas. 

Disbanded 26 June 1944. Reconstituted 25 August 1945 in the Minnesota 

National Guard as Battery D, 774th Antiaircraft Artillery Gun Battalion. 

Reorganized and federally recognized 26 November 1947 at St. Paul as 

Battery D, 256th Antiaircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion, an 

element of the 47th Infantry Division. Ordered into active federal service 

16 January 1951 at St. Paul. (Battery D, 256th Antiaircraft Artillery Weapons Battalion [NGUS], organized and federally recognized 16 January 

1953 at St. Paul.) Reorganized and redesignated 20 May 1953 as Battery 

D, 256th Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion. Released 2 December 1954 from 

active federal service and reverted to state control; federal recognition 

concurrently withdrawn from Battery D, 256th Antiaircraft Artillery 

(NGUS). 

Converted and redesignated 22 February 1959 as the 47th Aviation 

Company, an element of the 47th Infantry Division. Reorganized and 

1·edesignated 1 April 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

47th Aviation Battalion, and remained assigned to the 47th Infantry 

Division (organic elements concurrently organized from new and existing units). (Company A allotted 1 February 1968 to the Illinois Army 

National Guard; redesignated 30 September 1978 as Company C and 

Companies A and E allotted to the Minnesota Army National Guard, 

Company B allotted to the Iowa Army National Guard, and Company D 

allotted to the Wisconsin Army National Guard.) 

Home Area: Minnesota (less elements in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin) 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Company D (Madison, Wisconsin) entitled to the following: 

World War I 

Aisne-Mame 

Oisc-Aisne 

Meuse-Argonne 

Alsace 1918 

Champagne 1918 

DECORATIONS 

World War fl- AP 

Papua 

New Guinea 

Leyte 

Luzon 

Company D (Madison, Wisconsin) entitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered PAPUA (Papuan Forces, U.S. Army, 

Southwest Pacific Area, cited; WD GO 21, 1943), French Croix de Guerre 

with Palm, World War I, Streamer embroidered OISE-AISNE (!27th Infantry cited; WD GO 11, 1924), and Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, 

Streamer embroidered 17 OCTOBER 1944 TO 4 JULY 1945 ( 128th Infantry cited; DA GO 43, 1950) 

47TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

52d AVIATION BATTALION 

(Flying Dragons) 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a pair of white 

wings pointing upwards in the center of which, between 

the two leading edges, is a golden sword also point 

upwards. Placed in the center of the sword blade is a red 

Florentine fleur-de-lis. 

Symbolism: The wings represent aviation. The sword, a symbol of 

the Army, represents the contributions of the unit's 

predecessors. The red fleur-de-lis of Florence represents the World War II campaigns of the battalion in 

Italy. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nonclivisional) 

Constituted 31 May 1940 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Detachment, 204th Quartermaster Battalion. Activated 10 

June 1942 at Compton, California. Redesignated 1 July 1942 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 204th Quartermaster Gas Supply Battalion. Reorganized and redesignated 10 December 1943 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 204th Quartermaster Battalion, 

Mobile. Inactivated 13 October 1945 at Camp Kilmer, New Jersey. 

Converted and redesignated 1 August 1946 as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Detachment, 204th Transportation Corps Truck Batta lion, 

and activated at Fort Benning, Georgia. Redesignated 20 May 1947 as 

Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 204th Transportation 

Truck Battalion . Reorganized and redesignated 16 May 1949 as Head -

quarters and Headquarters Company, 52d Transportation Truck Battalion. Reorganized and redesignated 1 April 1954 as Headquarters and 

80 
81 

Headquarters Company, 52d Transportation Battalion. Inactivated 10 

May 1955 in J apan. 

Redesignated 13 October 1955 as Headquarters and Headquarters 

Detachment, 52d Transportation Battalion. Activated 7 November 1955 

at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Converted and redesignated 22 December 1962 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 52d Aviation 

Battalion. Reorganized and redesignated 25 January 1965 as Headqua rters and Headquarters Detachment, 52d Aviation Battalion. Reorganized 

and redesignated 25 November 1968 as Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, 52d Aviation Battalion. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Wodd War II 

N a pies-F oggia 

Rome-Arn<> 

North Apennines 

Po Valley 

Ko1·ean Wa1· 

UN Offensive 

CCF Intervention 

First UN Counteroffensive 

CCF Spring Offensive 

UN Summer-Fall Offensive 

Second Korean Wimer 

Korea, Summer-Fall 1952 

Third Korean Winter 

Korea, Summer· 1953 

Vietnam 

Advisory 

Defense 

DECORATIONS 

Counter·offensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase III 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Coumer·offensive, Phase V 

Coumeroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter-Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counter·offensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 

Cease-Fire 

Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered DAK TO 

DISTRICT (52d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 38, 1971 ) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered PLEI ME (52d Aviation 

Battalion cited ; DA GO 20, 1967) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered DUC CO (52d Aviation 

Battalion cited; DA GO 40, 1967) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered EUROPEAN 

THEATER (204th Quartermaster Battalion cited; DA GO 39, Fifth Army, 

1945) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered KOREA (52d 

Transportation T ruck Battalion cited; DA GO 68, 1953) 

Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, Streamer embroidered 

KOREA (52d Transportation Battalion cited; DA GO 83, 1954) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1963- 1966 (52d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 46, 

1968) 
82 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966-1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 52d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 22, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967 - 1968 (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 52d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 21, 1969, as amended by DA 

GO 43, 1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969-1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

52d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970 (52d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 11, 1973) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

52d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970 (52d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 5, 1973) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, Streamer embroidered Vl.ETNAM 1971 (52d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 32, 1973) 

52D AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

"AAAA honors top unit (52d Combat Aviation Battalion) aviator (Maj. 

Robin K. Miller)." Armed Forces Journal106 (9 November 1968):20- 21. 

Doyle, Edward and Lipsman, Samuel. "Liftoff into Battle." The Vietnam 

Experience: America Takes Over. Boston: Boston Publishing Company, 

1982. 

Mauldin, Bruce P. "Double-Header Airmobile Operations In Vietnam." 

United States Army Aviation Digest 2 (August 1965):27 -29. 

"Reporting Final." United States A1·my Aviation Digest 29 (April 1983):23 -24. 

Tolson, John J. Ainnobility 1961-1971. Vietnam Studies. Washington: 

Government Printing Office, 1973. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

53d AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold d istinctive insignia consisting of a blue disc bearing diagonally across the disc a gold winged and belled 

falcon's leg, the wing extending above the rim and the 

claws grapsing a black horizontal rectangle at base of 

disc; all above and inclosed at the sides by a circular gold 

scroll inscribed "Support Everywhere" in black letters. 

Symbolism: The battalion's capability for speed , accuracy, and expert 

maneuvering in the pet·formance of its assignments is 

depicted by the winged falcon's leg in front of the 

expanse of blue sky. T he bell pertains to the planning 

and control provided by the unit. The black rectang le 

alludes to cargo and the transportation mission of the 

battalion. 

FLAG D EVICE 

The flag device is the same as the d istinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(inactive) 

Constituted 25 August 1966 in the Regular Army as Headquarte rs 

and Headquarters Company, 53d Aviation Battalion, and activated at 

Fort Rucker, Alabama. Inactivated 2 April 1972 at Fort Rucker, Alabama. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPAT ION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORAT IONS 

None. 

53D AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

83 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

55th AVIATION BATT ALI ON 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a broad arrow 

(a form of arrowhead) point to base and stem partially 

split vertically wedge-wise, below two single wings, the 

ulnas resting on the lower edges of the broad arrow and 

the feathers raised and turned inward, the tips of the 

top feather of each wing touching and the blue area 

within the device is formed by the broad arrow and the 

wings. Upon a blue scroll encircling the base the inscription "Wings of Victory" in silver letters. 

Symbolism: The wings and broad arrow are symbols of flight; the 

broad arrow also alludes to aggressiveness and readiness. 

The stem has been partially split so that the broad arrow 

simulates two "V's" (5's) and refers to the unit's numerical designation "55." The "V's" also allude to victory. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGES AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 23 September 1966 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 55th Aviation Battalion. Activated 25 

October 1966 at Fort Hood, Texas. Inactivated 18 July 1972 at Fort 

Hood, Texas. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

84 

55TH AVIATION BATT A LION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

58th AVIATION BATTALION 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a blue globe with 

grid lines surmounted by a sunburst over the upper 

area consisting of a disc emitting five rays to the top all 

in front of a pair of wings conjoined and with tips 

upwards supporting the rays at the peak, all above a 

blue curved scroll in base inscribed "Safe, Orderly, 

Expeditious," in gold letters. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors used 

for aviation units. The wings emanating and rising above 

the earth (globe) indicate the unit's readiness to provide 

effective administrative and technical supervision in fulfilling its mission. The sun, a symbol of command and 

control, refers to the tactical and logistical support capabilities of the unit. The grid lines of the globe connote 

the air traffic control and navigation signal coverage. 

The rays of the sunburst and the d iscs of the sun and 

globe, simulating the numeral "8," allude to the numerical designation of the unit. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 22 J anuary 1968 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 58th Aviation Battalion. Activated I March 

1968 in Vietnam. Inactivated 17 February 1969 in Vietnam. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Coumeroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

85 
86 

D ECORATIONS 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1968 (58th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 1969) 

58TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
63d AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

None approved. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

AR 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 31 March 1959 in the Army Reserve as the 63d Aviation 

Company and assigned to the 63d Infantry Division. Activated I May 

1959 at Long Beach, California. Reorganized and redesignated 1 April 

1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 63d Aviation Battalion (organic elements constituted 27 March 1963; Company B activated I 

April 1963). Battalion inactivated 31 December 1965 at Long Beach, 

California. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

630 AVIATION B KITALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

87 
77th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, the tiara arraswise of the Statue of Liberty argent 

enfiled with a quarrel palewise of the like, the point 

pierced of the field. 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Army Reserve: On a wreath of the colors, argent and 

azure, the Lexington Minute Man proper. The statue of 

the Minute Man, Captain John Parker (H. H. Kitson, 

sculptor), stands on the Common in Lexington, Massachusetts. 

Liberty's Wings. 

Blue and white represent sky and clouds; these colors 

allude to the infantry origin of the unit. The tiara symbolizes the unit's home area. The seven rays suggest the 

numerical designations of the 77th Aviation Battalion 

and the 77th Infantry Division. The quarrel is symbolic 

of armed flight, and the pierced aperture signifies 

observation. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The d istinctive insignia consists of elements of the shield and the 

motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

AR 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 7 April 1959 in the Army Reserve as the 77th Aviation 

Company and assigned to the 77th Infantry Division. Activated 1 May 

1959 at New York, New York. Reorganized and redesignated 26 March 

1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 77th Aviation Battalion (organic elements constituted 25 March 1963; Company B activated 

26 March 1963). Battalion inactivated 30 December 1965 at New York, 

New York. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

88 
D ECORATIONS 

None. 

77TH AVIATION B ATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

89 
8lst AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Gules, a fess nebuly argent surmounted by a pile in 

point azure bearing a winged arrow barb to chief of the 

second . 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Army Reserve: On a wreath of the colors, argent and 

gules, the Lexington Minute Man proper. The statue of 

the Minute Man, Captain j ohn Parker (H. H. Kitson, 

sculptor), stands on the Common in Lexington, Massachusetts. 

Complete the Mission. 

The red and white background of the shield refers to 

Georgia, where the battalion was activated, and its home 

area. The nebuly division li ne represents clouds; the 

blue color stands for the sky. The winged arrow refers 

to the nature and mission of the unit and to its fighting 

spirit. 

DIST INCT IVE INSIGNIA 

None approved. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

L INEAGE 

AR 

(inactive) 

Constituted 10 September 1958 in the Army Reserve as the 8lst 

Aviation Company and assigned to the 8 lst I nfantry Division. Activated 

15 September 1958 at Atlanta, Georgia. Reorganized and redesignated 1 

April 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 8lst Aviation 

Battalion (organic elements constituted 26 March 1963; Company B activated 1 April 1963). Battalion inactivated 31 December 1965 at Atlanta, 

Georgia. 

CAMPAIGN P ARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

90 

8 1ST AVIAT ION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
82d AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Cheeky azure and argent, a chess knight in profile sable 

between two wings d isplayed inverted or. 

None approved. 

Ground Air Mobility. 

Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors associated with aviation units. The cheeky field represen ts a 

chess board, symbolic of the battlefield, and refers to 

the strategy of war. T he knight, considered the most 

versatile p iece to guard a nd aid the queen, placed 

between wings, symbolizes the mission of the unit. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND H ONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(82d Airborne Division) 

Constituted 1 September 1957 in the Regular Army as the 82d Aviation Company, assigned to the 82d Airborne Division, and activated at 

Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Reorganized and redesignated 7 December 

1962 as H eadquarters and Headquarters Company, 82d Aviation Battalion (organic companies concu rrently constituted and activated). 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Company A entitled to the following: 

Viettwm 

Defense 

CounteroiTcnsive 

Countc•·offcnsivc, Phase li 

DECORATIONS 

Company A entitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer 

embroidered DONG XOAI (Company A, 82d Aviation Battalion, cited ; DA 

GO 43, 1966), and Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1965-1966 (Company A, 82d Aviation Battalion, cited; 

DA GO 17, 1968) 

820 AVIATION BATTALION B IBLIOGRAPHY 

Barry, Robert F. Powet· Pack: Dominican Republic, 1965- 1966. Por tsmouth, Va: Messenger Printing Co., 1966. 

9 1 
83d AVIATION BATTALION 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: Gyronny argent and azure, on a bend sable of gyroscope of the first. 

Crest: That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Army Reserve: On a wreath of the colors, argent and 

azure, the Lexington Minute Man proper. The statue of 

the Minute Man, Captain J ohn Parker (H. H. Kitson, 

sculptor), stands on the Common in Lexington, Massachusetts. 

Motto: On the Move. 

Symbolism: Teal blue and white are the colors formerly used for 

aviation battalions. The gyroscope, an instrument widely 

used to stabilize and maintain the equilibrium of aircraft, 

is used symbolically to allude to firmness and uniformity 

of purpose and reflects the battalion's support functions 

of reconnaissance and surveillance. The diagonal band 

simulates a runway and the radiating background the 

whirling blades of a propeller. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

T he distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LI NEAGE AND HONORS 

AR 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 19 March 1959 in the Army Reserve as the 83d Aviation 

Company and assigned to the 83d Infantry Division. Activated 20 March 

1959 at Akron, Ohio. Reorganized and redesignated 15 April 1963 as 

Headquarters and H eadquarters Company, 83d Aviation Battalion 

(organic elements constituted 9 April 1963; Company B activated 15 

April 1963). Battalion inactivated 3 1 December 1965 at Akron, Ohio. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

92 

83D AV IATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
90th AVIATION BATTALION 

None approved. 

LINEAGE 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

LINEAGE AND H ONORS 

AR 

(inactive) 

Constituted 16 December 1958 in the Army Reserve as the 90th 

Aviation Company and assigned to the 90th Infantry Division. Activated 

5 J anua ry 1959 at Austin , T exas. Redesignated 15 March 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 90th Aviation Battalion (organic 

elements constituted 15 March 1963; Company B activated 15 March 

1963). Battalion inactivated 31 December 1965 at Austin, Texas. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

9 0T H AV IATION B ATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

93 
lOlst AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: Azure, a pile lozengy at the point argent, in chief a 

mullet of eight rays per fess wavy gules and of the first. 

On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, between 

two triangles sable a horse's head argent. 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

Wings of the Eagle. 

Teal blue and white are the colors formerly used by 

aviation units. Participation by the battalion's predecessor (4th Aviation Section) in the actions at Whitehorse 

Mountain, Triangle Hill, and Sniper Ridge in Korea is 

denoted by the three corners of the wedge shape in the 

center. The projection at its base represents the Kumsong 

Salient action. The aviation section is credited with eight 

campaigns in Korea, and these are cited by the estoile 

(with eight rays) in the colors of the Korean taeguk, 

further symbolizing award of the Korean Presidential 

Unit Citation. The crest is symbolic of the action at 

Whitehorse Mountain, Triangle Hill, and Sniper Ridge. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver and black eagle with wings elevated; between 

the wings a three segmented red scroll inscribed "Wings" 

at the top, "of the" in the middle, and "Eagle" on the 

lower scroll in silver letters. 

Symbolisrn: The eagle in flight represents aviation. It also alludes to 

the 101st Airborne Division, to which the battalilon is 

assigned. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(101st Airborne Division) 

Constituted 7 December 1950 in the Regular Army as the 4th Light 

Aviation Section. Activated 19 December 1950 in Korea. Inactivated 5 

November 1954 in Korea. Redesignated 1 July 1956 as the 10 lst Aviation 

Company, assigned to the lOlst Airborne Division, and activated at Fort 

Campbell, Kentucky. Reorganized and redesignated 3 December 1962 as 

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 101st Aviation Battalion 

(organic elements constituted 15 November 1962 and activated 3 December 1962). 

94 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Korean WM 

CCF lnter·vention 

First UN Counter·offensive 

CCF Spring Offensive 

UN Summer-Fall Offensive 

Second Kor•ean Winter 

Korea, Summer- Fall 1952 

Third Korean Winter 

Korea, Summer 1953 

Viet11am 

Coumer·offensive, Phase III 

Tet Countet•offensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 

Company A additionally entitled to the following: 

Vietnam 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

DECORATIONS 

95 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered THUA THIEN PROVINCE (lO lst Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 50, 1971) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered TCHEPONE (101st Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 5, 1973) 

Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, Streamer embroidered 

KOREA (4th Light Aviation Section cited; DA GO 89, 1953) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1968- 1969 (lOlst Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 

1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1971 (lOlst Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 6, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1970 (10 1st Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 11, 

1973) 

Company A additionally entitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), 

Streamer embroidered DONG XOAI (Company A, lOlst Aviation Battalion, 

cited; DA GO 43, 1966) and Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer 

embroidered CHOUNG THIEN PROVINCE (Company A, 101st Aviation 

Battalion, cited; DA GO 45, 1969) 

Companies C and D each additionally entitled to Republic of Vietnam 

Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1969- 1970 (Companies C and D, I 0 1st Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 

48, 1971) 

lO l ST AVIATION BATTALION B IBLIOGRAPHY 

Cohen, Murray L., ed. Vietnam Odyssey, The Story of the 1st B·rigade, JOist 

Ai1·bome Division, in Vietnam. Texarkana: Southwest Printers and 

Publishers, 1967. 
96 

Cook, Charles B. "Hurrican Commancheros." United Stales Anny Aviation 

Digest 25 (December 1979):24- 27. 

Merkle, Alan R. JOist Ait·borne Division, Ft. CamjJbell, Kentucky. n.p., 1965. 

JOist Aviation Battalion, Campbell Army Air Field, Wings of the Eagle. Baton 

Rouge: Army and Navy Publishing Co., 1961. 

Pitchford, Gary L., ed. The Continuing Struggle, 1968- 1969, A Pictorial 

Review of the J 01 st Airborne Division (Airmobile), The Second Year. Vietnam: 

lOlst Airborne Association, 1970. 

Vaughn, Ralph E. "Hurrican Eagle Save." United States Army Aviation 

Digest 25 (December 1979):28. 
102d AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

None approved. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

AR 

LlNEACE (inactive) 

Constituted 11 May 1959 in the Army Reserve as the 1 02d Aviation 

Company and assigned to the 102d Infantry Division. Activated 1 June 

1959 at Kansas City, Missouri. Reorganized and redesignated 1 April 

1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 102d Aviation Battalion (organic elements constituted 26 March 1963; Company B activated 1 

April 1963). Battalion inactivated 31 December 1965 at Kansas City, 

Missouri. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPAT ION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

102D AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

97 
123d AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: Gules, on a chevron engrailed or a chevron azure, on a 

chief of the second two wings conjoined of the third. 

Ct·est: None approved. 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

None approved. 

The color blue represents aviation units. Red and yellow, 

the colors of the flag of the Republic of Vietnam, refer 

to Vietnam and to the organization's place of activation 

and area of service. T he blue wings, together with the 

blue chevron , symbolize aerial support, and the yellow 

engrailed chevron refers to the broad support band of 

variegated activities within the scope of the organization. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

T he distinctive insignia consists of elements of the shield of the coat 

of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 8 December 1967 in the Regular Army as the 123d Aviation Battalion, assigned to the 23d Infantry Division, and activated in 

Vietnam. Inactivated 7 November 1971 in Vietnam and relieved from 

assignment to the 23d Infantry Division. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

98 

Vietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase Ill 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer-Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 
99 

DECORATIONS 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969-1970 (123d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 42, 

1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM FEB-MAR 1971 (123d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 

42, 1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM APR- JUN 1971 (Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, 123d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1 974) 

Company B additionally entitled to Republic of Vietnam Cross of 

Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1968-1969 

(Company B, 123d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 2, 1971) 

1230 AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Goodman, Jeffrey D., ed. The 16th Aviation GroufJ (Combat) ChuLai, Vietnam, 

1970. n.p., 1970. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT 

130th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCT IVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a Talbot with 

wings; a wing charged with a cross patty per pale of two 

colors; red to dexter half and green to sinister half. The 

device is supported by a tri-segmented blue scroll inscribed "Wings" "Of' "Agility" in silver letters. 

Symbolism: Blue is a color used for aviation units. The Talbot at 

point and winged refers to the unit's disciplined readiness. The cross patty, red and green, in the colors of the 

city of Rome, allude to the campaigns in which the organization participated during World War II in Italy. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

ARNG 

(Tennessee) 

Organized and federally recognized 9 June 1924 in the Tennessee 

National Guard at Nashville as the 225th Motor Transport Company. 

Redesignated 9 January 1928 as the 120th Motor Transport Company, 

an element of the 30th Division. Reorganized and redesignated 1 May 

1936 as Company B, 105th Quartermaster Regiment, an element of the 

30th Division. Redesignated 1 .July 1936 as Company E, 1 05th Quartermaster Regiment. Inducted into federal service 16 September 1940 at 

Nashville. Reorganized and redesignated 16 February 1942 as the 18 lst 

Quartermaster Company and relieved from assignment to the 30th 

Division. Reorganized and redesignated in August 1943 as the 181st 

Quartermaster Depot Company. Inactivated 10 June 1946 at Leghorn, 

Italy. 

Reorganized and federally recognized 18 November 1948 at Nashville as Company D, 1 05th Medical Battalion, an element of the 30th 

Infantry Division. Redesignated 1 February 1949 as the Clearing Company, 105th Medical Battalion. Reorganized and redesignated 27 October 1954 as Company A, 230th Armored Medical Battalion, an element 

of the 30th Armored Division. 

100 
101 

Converted and redesignated 1 March 1959 as the l 30th Aviation 

Company, an element of the 30th Armored Division. Reorganized and 

redesignated l April 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, !30th Aviation Battalion, and remained assigned to the 30th 

Armored Division (organic elements concurrently organized from existing units). Battalion broken up 1 February 1968 and its elements reorganized and redesignated as follows: Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 130th Aviation 

Battalion, and relieved from assignment to the 30th Armored Division 

(federal recognition withdrawn from Company A; Company B as the 

331st Aviation Company - hereafter separate lineages). Location changed 

1 September 1970 to Smyrna. Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

!30th Aviation Battalion, reorganized and redesignated 1 November 1971 

as the Aviation Company, 30th Armored Division. Reorganized and 

redesignated 1 July 1973 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

!30th Aviation Battalion, and relieved from assignment to the 30th 

Armored Division. Redesignated 20 October 1978 as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Detachment, !30th Aviation Battalion. 

Home Station: Smyrna 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Wodd War II 

Naples-Foggia 

Rome-Arno 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

130TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT 

131st AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

D ISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

DesC?iption: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a blue cloud 

formation of three lobes, surmounted by a white magnolia blossom with yellow center and gt·een leaves, in base 

a pair of sil ver wings d isplayed, all above a semicircular 

blue scroll inscribed "Above Valor and Courage" in silver letters. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue is a color for aviation units. The magnolia blossom symbolizesjackson, Mississippi, the home 

station of the unit; the magnolia blossom also alludes to 

Louis Le Fleur whose trading post at Le Fleur Bluff was 

located where Jackson, Mississippi, now stands. The 

wings displayed refer to the unit's association with transport aviation companies. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The f1ag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

ARNG 

(Mississippi) 

Organized and fede t·ally recognized 26 February 1947 in the Mississippi Army National Guard at J ackson as the 31st Mechanized Cavalry 

Reconnaissance Tt·oop, an element of the 31st Infantry Division. Redesignated 1 December 1948 as the 31st Reconnaissance Company. Ordered 

imo active federal se t·vice 16 J anuary 1951 at J ackson. (3 1st Reconnaissance Company [NGUS] organized and federally recognized 9 February 

1953 at Jackson.) Released 15 J une 1954 from active federal service and 

reverted to state control; federal recognition concurrently withdrawn 

from the 31st Reconnaissance Company (NGUS). 

Converted and redesignated 1 May 1959 as the 3 1st Aviation Company (Mississippi part) a nd remained assigned to the 31st Infantry 

Division. Ordered into active federal service 30 September I962 at j ackson; 

released 5 October 1962 from active federal service and reverted to state 

control. Reorganized and redesignated 1 May 1963 as Company A, 31st 

i\ viation Battalion, an element of the 31st Infantry Division. 

102 
103 

Reorganized and red esignated 15 February 1968 as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, !3 1st Aviation Battalion, and relieved from 

assignment to the 31st Infantry Division. Redesignated 20 October 1978 

as Headquarters and Headquarte rs Detachment, 13lst Aviation Battalion. 

Home Station: J ackson 

C AMI>AIGN PARTI CI PATION C REDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

13 1ST AVIATION BKITALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT 

145th AVIATION BATTALION 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

DescrijJtion: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of a pheon (heraldic 

arrowhead) point downward, surmounted on the neck 

by a blue arrow, and with a blue background at top and 

center. 

Symbolism: The basis of the design revolves around the number 

145. The blue arrow represents the number 1 (one); the 

blue arrow and the pheon together represent the number 4 (Roman numeral IV); and the pheon alone represents the number 5 (Roman numeral V). The pheon 

and the arrow also represent swiftness and sureness in 

flight of aircraft; the blue at top and center symbolizes 

the sky. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(inactive) 

Constituted 28 August 1963 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 145th Aviation Battalion. Activated 24 September 1963 in Vietnam. Reorganized and redesignated 25January 1965 

as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, !45th Aviation Battalion. 

Reorganized and redesignated 1 December 1968 as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 145th Aviation Battalion. Reorganized and redesignated 16 July 1981 as Headquarte1·s and Headquarters Detachment, 

145th Aviation Battalion. Inactivated 30 September 1982 at Fort Benning, 

Georgia. 

104 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

lliet•wm 

Advisory 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Countet·offensive, Phase II 

Coumeroffensive, Phase Ill 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

DECORATIONS 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter-Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Countet·offensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidmion II 

Cease-fire 

105 

Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered DONG XOAI 

(Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 145th Aviation Battalion, 

cited; DA GO 43, 1965) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered SUOJ TRE (!45th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1964 (l45th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 46, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1964- 1965 (145th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 46, 

1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966-1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

145th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 22, 1968, as amended by DA GO 

21, 1969, and DA GO 59, 1969) 

Re public of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 (145th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 

1969, as amended by DA GO 46, 1969, and DA GO 59, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

145th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

145th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974, and DA GO 54, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969 - 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, 145th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 55, 1971) 

145T H AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Fraker, William W. "Playboys and the Lightning Bug." United States Army 

AvialionDigest 13 (January 1967):35. 

J ett, Michael J. Pictorial History of The 145th Combat Aviation Battalion, 

"First In Vietnam." Tokyo: Da i Nippon Co., 1968. 
149th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Or and in base a front elevation of the Alamo in silhouette throughout azure charged with an annulet enclosing a mullet argent; in chief a pair of wings conjoined of 

the second above two lightning flashes, that to dexter 

bendwise and that to sinister bend-sinisterwise gules. 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Texas, Oklahoma, and Arizona Army National Guard 

placed on center, and on dexter and sinister underneath, 

in the order in which the states were admitted to the 

Union: 

Texas: On a wreath of the colors, or and azure, a mullet 

argent encircled by a garland of live oak and olive proper. 

Olllahoma: On a wreath of the colors, or and azure, an 

Indian's head with war bonnet all proper. 

Arizona: On a wreath of the colors, or and azure, a giant 

cactus proper. 

Contact. 

Blue is for the sky, the element of aviation, and golden 

yellow is symbolic of zeal, wisdom, and achievement. 

The wings and flashes denote the basic aviation mission 

of the unit with the color scarlet alluding to the Red 

River, a stream common to both Texas and Oklahoma. 

The star refers to Texas, the unit's headquarters state, 

and the annulet, representing unity and strength, also 

alludes to the state of Oklahoma from which the organization receives part of its strength. The Alamo silhouette signifies the determination to defend state a nd 

country. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

106 

Description: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of three yellow rays 

on a light blue background radiating from behind a 

gray silhouette representation of the Alamo charged with 

a white star on tlie upper center and surmounted at the 

base by two blue conjoined wings, each charged with a 

gold lightning flash and all beneath a reel scroll, the 

ends terminating at the tops of the wings inscribed 

"Contact" in gold letters. 
107 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

ARNG 

LJ NEAGE (49th Armored Division) 

Constituted 25 September 1978 in the Texas Army National Guard 

as the I 49th Aviation Battalion and assigned to the 49th Armored Division. 

Organized 30 September 1978 (less Companies B and D) from new and 

existing units with Headquarters at Austin (Company B concurrently 

allotted to the Oklahoma Army National Guard and Company D allotted 

to the Oklahoma and Arizona Army National Guard). (Company D allotted 1 May 1982 to the Arizona Army National Guard.) 

Home Area: T exas (less elements in Arizona and Oklahoma) 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Company A (San Antonio) entitled to the following: 

World War 11- EAME 

Naples-Foggia (with armwhead) 

Anzio 

Rome-Arno 

Southern Fn111ce (with arrowhead) 

Rhineland 

Ardennes-1\lsace 

Cemral Europe 

Company B (Lexington, Oklahoma) entitled to the following: 

Worlcl War 11- EAME 

Sicily (with arrowhead) 

Naples-Foggia (with arrowhead) 

Anzio 

Rome-1\rno 

Southern France (with arrowhead) 

Northern France 

Rhineland 

Ardennes-1\lsace 

Central Europe 

DECORATIONS 

Korean Wm· 

Second Korean Wimer 

Korea. Summer- Fall 1952 

Third Korean Winter 

Korea, Summer· 1953 

Company A (San Antonio) entitled to Preside ntial Unit Citation 

(Army), Streamer embroidered RIVIERA (1st Battalion, !41st Infantry, 

cited; WD GO 7, 1947), and French Croix de Guerre with Palm, World 

War 11, Streamer embroidered VOSGES (14lst Infantry cited; DA GO 43, 

1950) 

Company B (Lexington, Oklahoma) entitled to Meritorio us Unit 

Commendation, St1·eamer embroidered KOREA (120th Engineer Battalion cited; DA GO 22, 1954), French Croix de Guerre with Palm, World 

War II, Streamer embroidered ACQUAFONDA"fA (!20th Engineer Battalion and I 79th Infantry cited; DA GO 43, 1950), and Republic of Korea 

Presidential Unil Citation, Streamer embroidered KOREA (120th Engineer Battalio n and !79th Infantry cited; DA GO 43, 1954) 

149TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
150th AVIATION BATT ALI ON 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, on a pile reversed embattled argent a spearhead 

between two wings elevated tenne. 

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the 

Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, and Vermont Army 

National Guard placed from dexter to sinister, two above 

and two underneath, in the order in which the states 

were admitted to the Union: 

Delaware: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a 

griffin's head erased azure eared and beaked or langued 

gules collared sable fimbriated argent and thereon three 

plates. 

New jersey: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, 

a lion's head erased or collared four fusils gules. 

Mmyland: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a 

cross bottony per cross quarterly gules and argent. 

Vermont: On a wreath of the colors, argent and azure, a 

buck's head erased within a garland of pine branches all 

proper. 

Our Guard is Up. 

Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors traditionally associated with aviation units. The wings refer 

to the basic mission of the battalion. The triangular shape 

is embattled, which is symbolic of defense, and the spearhead alludes to the unit's offensive capability. Blue and 

white are symbolic of sky and clouds. 

DISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

ARNG 

(50th Armored Division) 

Constituted 30 August 1978 in the New Jersey Army National Guard 

as the !50th Aviation Battalion and assigned to the 50th Armored Division. 

Organized l September 1978 (less Companies A, B, and D) from new 

and existing units with Headquarters at West Trenton (Company A concurrently allotted to the Vermont Army National Guard). (Company B 

108 
109 

allotted 30 September 1978 to the Delaware Army National Guard and 

Company D allotted to the Maryland Army National Guard.) 

Home Area: New J ersey (less elements in Delaware, Maryland, and 

Vermont) 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Company E (Trenton) entitled to the following: 

World Wm·/1 - EAME 

Not·thern France 

Ardcnncs-Alsacc 

Central Europe 

DECORATIONS 

Company E (Trenton) e ntitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), 

Streamer embroidered SCHALBACH (2d Battalion, ll4th Infantry, cited; 

WD GO 27, 1945) 

150TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
158th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC I TEMS 

Azure, a base indented or, on the first a lightning flash 

point to base of the last and a winged sword consisting 

of a blade point to chief argent, hilt of the second and 

for quillons a pair of wings conj oined displayed inverted 

of the third, all saltirewise. 

On a wreath of the colors, or and azure, a quiver of 

three arrows of the first, flighted gules in front of a 

circlet of stylized rice stalks gold. 

Challenge. 

The sword and wings represent the effective power of 

the battalion's aerial weapons and organic fire support. 

The quillons (cross guard) composed of wings refer to 

the unit's basic aviation mission and also allude to its 

assignment to the 10 lst Airborne Division. The lightning flash indicates the speed and shock effect of air 

assault operations, and the peaks refer to the mountainous area of Fort Carson, Colorado, where the unit was 

activated. The sword blade, five-segmented hilt, and cross 

guard with eight primary feathers allude to the numerical designation of the battalion. 

The circlet of rice stalks and the colors yellow and red 

from the flag of the Republic of Vietnam allude to the 

unit's service there. T he arrows refer to decorations 

awarded the battalion in Vietnam, and the quiver is also 

symbolic of the basic mission of the unit in moving combat troops and weaponry. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of a rms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (lOlst Airborne Division) 

Constituted 25 July 1968 in the Regular Army as the 158th Aviation 

Battalion, assigned to the lOlst Airborne Division, and activated (less 

Company C) at Fort Carson, Colorado (Company C concurrently acti- vated at Fort Riley, Kansas). · 

110 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

Counte,·offensive, J>hase V 

Counteroffensive, J>ftase Vl 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

DECORATIONS 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, .Phase VU 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 

111 

Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered HO CHI 

MINH TRAIL (158th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 13, 1974) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered THUA THIEN PROVINCE (158th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 50, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969 (158th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1971 (158th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969-1970 (158th Aviation Battalion cited; DA 

GO 48, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, Streamer embroi-

' dered VIETNAM 1970 (158th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 11, 1973) 

Company A additionally entitled to Presiden tial Unit Citation (Army), 

Streamer embroidered DONG AP BIA MOUNTAIN (Companies A and B, 

l58th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 16, 1972), and Valorous Unit 

Award, Streamer embroidered THUA THIEN PROVINCE 1969 (Company 

A, 158th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 2, 1971) 

Company B additionally entitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), 

Streamer embroidered DONG AP BIA MOUNTAIN (Companies A and B, 

158th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 16, 1972) 

158TH AVIATION BATTALION B IBLIOGRAPHY 

"10 1st's Black Hawk Company engages in combat." Army Aviation 29 

(January-February 1980): 10 - 11. 

Pitchford, Gary L., ed. The Continuing Struggle, 1968-1969, A Pictorial 

Review of the 101 st Airborne Division (Airmobile), The Second Year. Vietnam: 

10 1st Airborne Association, 1970. 

Sottak, Barry J. and Clymer, Theodore W. "JRX 'Bright Star 81,' An 

Aviation Overview." Army Aviation 29 (31 December 1980): 13-14. 

"Two 10lst Aviation Companies set unprecedented mark." Army Aviation 

23 (November 1977):19. 

Zanow, William L. "Airmobility, the Fielding of the UH -60 A Black Hawk." 

Army Aviation 29 (15 September 1980):28-30. 
159th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: Gyronny of eight or and azure, on a bend gules an 

oriental dragon of the first. 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

None approved. 

Press On. 

Ultramarine blue is traditionally associated with aviation 

units. The gyronny background simulates the movement 

of rotating helicopter blades and refers to the mission of 

the battalion in its airlift capability. The contrasting colors further symbolize the continuous (day and night) 

operations during visual weather conditions. The red 

bend and the gold dragon refer to the organization's 

service in Vietnam. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (l01st Airborne Division) 

Constituted 1 July 1968 in the Regular Army as the !59th Aviation 

Battalion, assigned to the l01st Airborne Division, and activated (less 

Company C) in Vietnam. (Company C activated 24 july 1968 at Fort Sill, 

Oklahoma; inactivated 15 September 1980 at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.) 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 59/Counteroffensive 

Summer-Fall 1969 

DECORATIONS 

Winte•·-Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation I I 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered THUA THIEN PROVINCE (159th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 50, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1968-1969 (I 59th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 

1970) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1971 (159th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

112 
113 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1968- 1970 (159th Aviation Battalion cited; DA 

GO 48, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1970 (159th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO ll, 

1973) 

159TI-I AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Aguanno, Edwin M. "Operation Longhaul." United States Army Aviation 

Digest 20 (February 1974):4 1-45. 

Gram, Bill and Vandervoort, Benjamin. "Operation Longhaul II." Uni.ted 

States Army Aviation Digest 20 (October 1974):26-28. 

Markham, Robert E., II. "Operations, lOlst Aslt Platoon 'Deployed' by 

C- 5A." Army Aviation 25 (February 1977): 14, 41. 

"Operation Eagle Finch." United States Army Aviation Digest 20 (December 

1974):36-37. 
160th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, a winged centaur rampant argent holding upraised in his sinister hand a sword tenne, hilted of the 

second, in sinister chief an increscent or. 

None approved. 

Night Stalkers. 

Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors for 

aviation units. The winged centaur suggests the armed 

helicopter. The increscent denotes day and night operations. 

DIST INCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGES AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

( 10 1st Airborne Division) 

Constituted 1 April 1982 in the Regular Army as the 160th Aviation 

Battalion, assigned to the lOlst Airborne Division, and activated at Fort 

Campbell, Kentucky. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

114 

l60T H AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

164th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Desc1ijJtion: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of an arrow, point 

up, the shaft entwined by a pair of wings, conjoined and 

enfolded, tips to base, the upper half resting upon a 

blue keystone and all encircled in base by a blue scroll 

inscribed "Flight Support" in gold letters. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors for 

aviation units. The keystone alludes to the Keystone State 

(Pennsylvania), headquarters of the battalion. The wings 

wrapped around the arrow symbolize the close support 

and readiness in furtherance of the unit's basic mission. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag ·device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGES AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

AR 

(inactive) 

Constituted 24 November 1967 in the Army Reserve as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 164th Aviation Battalion, and assigned to 

the First United States Army. Activated 30 J anuary 1968 at Pittsburgh, 

Pennsylvania. Location changed 30 July 1968 to Allison Park, Pennsylvania. Inactivated 15 March 1972 at Allison Park, Pennsylvania. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

164TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

115 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT 

210th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGN IA (BADGE) 

DescrifJtion: A gold distinctive insignia consisting of two gold crossed 

arrows, with arrowheads upward on a blue background 

topped with a nebula, all between two gold wings conjoined at base, below a blue scroll bearing the inscription 

"Battle Line The Sky" in gold letters. 

Symboli5m: T he crossed arrows are used to symbolize the combat 

readiness of the battalion. T he wings refer to the u nit's 

ability to carry out its mission swiftly. The two wings 

with the two arrows placed like a n "X" further distinguish the unit's numerical designation (21 0). The blue 

background represents the area of operations, the sky. 

FLAG D EVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(nondivisional) 

Constituted 1 February 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 210th Aviation Battalion, and activated at 

Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Inactivated 31 August 1971 in Vietnam. 

Redesignated 30 April 1973 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 21 Otb Aviation Battalion, a nd activated at Fort Clayton, Canal 

Zone. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPAT ION CREDIT 

116 

Vietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase 111 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase V I 

Tet 69/Countcroffensivc 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter-Spring 1970 

SancLUary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 
1 I 7 

DECORATIONS 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 

210th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 22, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967- 1968 (210th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 2 1, 

1969, as amended by DA GO 46, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

210th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970-1971 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

210th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, 21 0th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 55, 1971) 

210TH AVIATION B ATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Goldie, Dave, and Hale, Colin. "Prepared To Survive." United States Army 

Aviation Digest 27 (February 1982):42-44. 

Hale, Colin. "193d Chinook Saves Vessel." United States Army Aviation 

Digest 26 (December 1980): 16- 17. 

!son, Mark A. "Battle Line the Sky." United States Army Aviation Digest 28 

(September 1982):6 - 8. 

Muse, G. D. "Maintenance, Latin American Style." United States Army A viatim~ Digest 28 (September 1982): 12-13. 

Santure, Larry R. "Guatemala, 2 10th Aviation Battalion Comes Through 

Again In Disaster Relief." United States Anny Aviation Digest 22 (July 

1976):4- 5. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

212th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a blue annulet 

bearing the motto "Wings of Freedom" on its lower half 

in silver letters and pierced by an arrowhead point down 

with its shaft forming a torch with orange flames at top 

center of the annulet; supporting the annulet from below 

a pair of wings conjoined with their tips pointed up. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors used 

for aviation units. The annulet suggests a prescribed 

drop zone and the arrowhead piercing it symbolizes the 

placement of men and materiel within the zone. T he 

flaming torch and wings refer to the unit's motto. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 1 February 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 212th Aviation Battalion. Activated 1 March 

1967 at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Inactivated 23 December 197 1 at Fort 

Lewis, Washington. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

11 8 

Vietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase III 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Coumeroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Counteroffcnsive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter-Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation 11 
119 

DECORATIONS 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967- 1968 (2 12th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

212th Aviation Battalion, cited ; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

212th Aviation Battalion, cited ; DA GO 6, 1974) 

212TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
214th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure, and a chief dancetty celeste issuant from sinister 

base bendwise a cougar's head and shoulders or, fangs 

argent. 

On a wreath of the colors, or and azure, in front of a 

wreath of laurel tied in base with a ribbon of the first 

striped of five gules, a pair of dragon wings conjoined in 

leure of the like enclosing at center a cross patty gold. 

Up Tight. 

The cougar, noted for ferocity and cunning and a symbol of strength and mobility, refers to the battalion's 

mission of swift and decisive engagement of the enemy. 

In addition, the use of the cougar commemorates the 

battalion's first commander, Lieutenant Colonel Leslie, 

from the state of Montana where the cougar, also known 

as a mountain lion, is often encountered. The peaks 

formed by the zigzag lines allude to the unit's high standards as expressed in its motto. Light blue (celeste) represents the sky, ultramarine blue is traditionally associated with aviation units, and gold is for achievement 

and zeal. The dragon wings symbolize the unit's service 

in Vietnam, and scarlet signifies the award of the 

Meritorious Unit Commendation. The wreath represents 

award of the Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor 

Medal, First Class. The ribbon tie and the cross patty 

indicate five awards of the Republic of Vietnam Cross of 

Gallantry with Palm. The points of the wings refer to 

the unit's participation in thirteen campaigns during the 

Vietnam War. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(9th Infantry Division) 

Constituted 1 February 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 214th Aviation Battalion, and activated at 

Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Inactivated 22 January 1973 at Fort Stewart, 

120 
121 

Georgia. Redesignated 1 July 1981 as Headquarters, Headquarters and 

Service Company, 214th Aviation Battalion, assigned to the 9th Infantry 

Division, and activated at Fort Lewis, Washington (organic elements concurrently constituted and activated). 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietua.m 

Counteroffensive, Phase ll 

Counteroffensive, Phase I II 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 59/Counteroffensive 

DECORATIONS 

Summet·- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation 1 

Consolidation II 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2 14th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 48, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 (214th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 2 1, 

1969, as amended by DA GO 46, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 214th 

Aviation Battalion , cited; DA GO 59, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969-1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

214th Aviation Battalion , cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2 14th 

Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 52, 197 1) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer einbroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

214th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1967- 1969 (Headquarters and Headquarters 

Company, 214th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 59, 1969) 

214TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

"Reporting Final." United States Army Aviation Digest 28 (October 1982):36. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

222d AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Desctiption: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of three paiTS of 

silver wings, back to back, issuing in the shape of a spiral, 

from a central blue disc. 

Symbolism: The wings in the shape of a spiral stand for both helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft. They refer to the two types 

of aircraft used by the battalion in performing its mission of tactical transport and logistical support. In 

addition, the three pairs of wings allude to the unit's 

numerical designation, "222." The blue disc, from which 

the wings issue, symbolizes the sky and the Pacific area 

where the battalion was activated. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nondivisional) 

Constituted 25 Aprill966 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 222d Aviation Battalion. Activated 25 May 1966 

in Vietnam. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

122 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase I II 

TeL Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer-Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sancwary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation l 

Consolidation I 1 
123 

DECORATIONS 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 222d Aviation Battalion, 

cited ; DA GO 48, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

222d Aviation Battalion, cited ; DA GO 22, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cmss of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967 - 1968 (222d Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 2 1, 

1969, as amended by DA GO 46, 1969) 

Re public of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

222d Aviation Battalion, cited ; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

222d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974, and DA GO 54, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headqua rters and Headquarters 

Company, 222d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 55, 1971) 

222D AVIATION BATTALION B IBLIOGRAPHY 

Kiernan, Rick. "There's been an explosion! " Army Aviation 29 (15 September 1980):14- 15. 

Rizk, Lyle M. "Aviation In T he Arctic." United States Anny Aviation Digest 

25 Qanuary 1979):24- 27. 

West, joe T., and Tormo, Kenneth. "We Fly T he Northern Sky." Soldiers 

29 (December 1974):3 1- 34. 

Wiram, Terri. "Skymasters Over The Great Land." Soldiers 37 (Septem ber 

1982):37-38. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

223d AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a key with double bits each of one notch and the bow in the shape of a 

three-bladed propeller (ends of blades slightly rounded) 

one blade up, between two wings counterwise, the ulnas 

angled and squared and resting on the lower blades of 

the propeller-bow and the wing tips conjoined with and 

terminating at the upper edge of the bits, the areas 

between the wings and the key of blue. 

Symbolism: The wings, with the ulnas squared in allusion to rotor 

blades, the key with the three-bladed propeller shaped 

bow, and the double bits which simulate the letter "C" 

refer to the unit's primary mission. The key in itself is 

symbolic of command and control. The two wings, the 

two or double bits of the key, and the three-bladed propeller also allude to the unit's numerical designation. 

FLAG DEVICE 

T he flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nondivisional) 

Constituted 15 May 1966 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Detachment, 223d Aviation Battalion, and activated in 

Vietnam. Reorganized and redesignated 10 May 1969 as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 223d Aviation Battalion. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

124 

Viet1Ut111 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase Ill 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter-Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation 1 

Consolidation II 

Cease-Fire 
125 

DECORATIONS 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered HO CHI MINH TRAIL 

(223d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 24, 1975) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 223d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 22, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 (223d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 

1969, as amended by DA GO 46, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

223d Aviation Battallion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (223d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 5, 

1973; Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 223d Aviation Battalion, 

cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1970 (223d Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 24, 

1972) 

223D AVIATION B ATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
226th AERIAL SURVEILLANCE 

AND ESCORT BATT ALI ON 

HERALDIC IT EMS 

None approved. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LiNEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 1 February 1963 in the Regular Army as the 226th Aerial 

Surveillance and Attack Battalion and assigned to the llth Air Assault 

Division. Activated 18July 1963 (less Companies A and B) at Fort Benning, 

Georgia (Companies A and B activated 11 February 1963 at Fort Benning, 

Georgia). Redesignated 27 January 1964 as the 226th Aerial Surveillance 

and Escort Battalion. Inactivated 30 June 1965 at Fort Benning, Georgia. 

CAMPAIGN PART ICIPAT ION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

126 

226TII AERIAL SURVEILLANCE AND ESCORT 

BATfALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
227th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Or, a pale g ules and in fess three pheons counterchanged, a chief nebuly azure. 

None approved. 

Pouvoir (Can Do). 

T he pheons, representing armament and ammunition, 

symbo ~e the assault mission of the battalio n. The blue 

nebuly chief alludes to the sky and denotes the aviation 

function of the unit. T he yellow and red suggest the 

firepower of the assau lt helicopter and the heat a nd 

explosiveness of the battle zone. 

DISTINCTIVE I NSIGN IA 

DescrijJtion: A silver d istinctive insignia consisting of a hawk with 

wings displayed and elevated, perched upon the center 

of a draped scroll inscribed with the motto in black 

letters; behind the hawk a scarlet pheon point up, one 

blade passing in front of the hawk's sinister wing. 

Symbolism: T he hawk is symbolic of courage and aggressiveness in 

flig ht. The pheon represents the unit's armament a nd 

assault capability. 

LINEAGE AND H ONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

( 1st Cavalry Division) 

Constituted 1 February 1963 in the Regular Army as the 227th Assault 

Helicopter Battalio n and assigned to the ll th Air Assault Division. Activated 11 February- 18 J uly 1963 at Fort Benning, Georgia. Reorganized 

and redesignated I July 1965 as the 227th Aviation Battalion; concurrently, relieved from assignment to the 11th Air Assault Division and 

assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division. (Company D inactivated 30 August 

1971 in Vietnam.) Headquarters and Headquarters Company reorganized and redesignated 19 November 1974 as the 227th Aviation Company (organic elements concurrently inactivated). 227th Aviation Company reorganized and redesignated 21 May 1978 as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 227th Aviation Battalion (organic elements concurrently activated). 

127 
128 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vitlluam 

Defense 

CounteroiTensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase 111 

Tel Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

DECORATIONS 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

T et 69/Countero!Tensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter-Spring I 970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI I 

Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered PLEIKU 

PROVINCE (227th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 40, 1967) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered QUANG TIN PROVINCE 

(Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 227th Aviation Battalion, 

cited; DA GO 39, 1970) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered BIEN HOA PROVINCE 

(227th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 39, 1970) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered FISH HOOK (227th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 1972) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1965- 1966 (227th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer em broidered VIETNAM 1965 - 1969 (227th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 59, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (227th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 42, 

1972, as amended by DA GO 11, 1973) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1971 (227th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 42, 

1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Actio n Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embr·oidered VIETNAM 1969-1970 (227th Aviation Battalion cited; DA 

GO 42, 1972) 

Company A additionally entitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), 

Streamer embroidered BINH THUAN PROVINCE (Companies A and D, 

227th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 2, 1973), and Valorous Unit 

Award, Streamer embroidered FIRE SUPPORT BASE 6 (Company A, 227th 

Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 5, 1973, as amended by DA GO 14, 

1979) 

Company D additionally entitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), 

Streamer embroidered BINH TI-IUAN PROVINCE (Companies A and D, 

227th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 2, 1973) 

227TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Coleman, ]. D., eel. The 1st AiT Cavalry Division, Vietnam, August 1965 to 

Decemlm·I969. Tokyo: Dai Nippon Printing Co., 1970. 

Garland, Albert N., eel. Infantry in Vietnam. Nashville: The Battery Press, 

1982. 
129 

Harrison, Donald P. "Developments in Airmobility in the United States 

Army." United States Army Aviation Digest 15 (June 1969):20-24. 

Hymoff, Edward . The Fint Air Cavalry Division. New Yor·k: M. W. Lads 

Publishing Co., 1967. 

Jackson, Wilfred A. "Stay Clear of Hue ." United States A1·my Aviation Digest 

16 (April 1970):12- 14. 

LiLLie, John A. "They Need Us Down There." United Stales Anny Aviation 

Digest 17 (March 1971):10- 13. 

Mertel, Kenneth D. "Can Do." United States Anny Aviation Digest 13 

(December 1967):32- 35. 

___ . Yem· of the H01·se- Vietnam; 1st Ai1· Cavalry in the Highlands. New 

York: Exposition Press, 1968. 

Smith, William H. "Hawk Star." United States A·rmy Aviation Digest 10 

(September 1964):27- 32. 

Swenson, J. Elmore." 11th Aviation Group ... in Concept and Combat." 

United States Anny Aviation Digest 16 (May 1970): 16- 22. 

Sykes, Charles S., .Jr., comp. Interim RejJort of 0jJerations1 1st Cavalry Division (Ainnobile), july 1, 1965, to DecembeT 31, 1966. Albuquerque: lst 

Cavalry Division Association, 1967. 

T ierney, Richard K. "The Aviation Group." United Stales Army Avialion 

Digest 11 (December 1965):2 - 7. 

Tolson, John J. Ainnobility, 1961-1971. Vietnam Studies. Washington: 

Government Printing Office, 1974. 

United States Army Aviation Digest. (Special Vietnam Issue) 12 (January 

1966). 
228th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: Azure, a pegasus rampant between four mullets argent. 

Crest: None approved. 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

Winged Warriors. 

T he four stars indicate the unit's readiness for worldwide deployment. The pegasus is a symbol of the stren gth 

and stamina of the organization. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 1 February 1963 in the Regular Army as the 228th Assault 

Support Battalion and assigned to the 11th Air Assault Division. Activated 

18 J uly 1963 (less Companies A and C) at Fort Benning, Georgia 

(Company A activated 11 February 1963 at Fort Benning, Georgia; Company C activated 1 May 1964 at Fort Benning, Georgia). Redesignated 6 

March 1964 as the 228th Assault Helicopter Support Battalion. Reorganized and redesigna ted 1 May 1964 as the 228th Assault Support Helicopter Battalion. Reorganized and redesignated 1 July 1965 as the 228th 

Aviation Battalion; concurrently, relieved from assignment to the 11th 

Air Assault Division and assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division. Inactivated 

14June 1971 at Fort Lewis, Washington. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

130 

Viet11mn 

Defense 

Counteroffe11sive 

Counteroffen sive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase Ill 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tel 69/Counteroffensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

SaucLUary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 
131 

DECORATIONS 

Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered PLEJKU 

PROVINCE (228th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 40, 1967) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered FISH HOOK (228th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 43, 1972) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1965-1966 (228th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1967 (228th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 73, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1965-1969 (228th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 59, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (228th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 42, 

1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 197 1 (228th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 42, 

1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (228th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA 

GO 42, 1972) 

Company A additionally entitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), 

Streamer embroidered BINH TI-IUAN PROVINCE (Companies A a nd C, 

228th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 2, 1973), and Valorous Unit 

Award, Streamer embroidered QUANG TIN PROVINCE (Company A, 228th 

Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 39, 1970) 

Company C additionally entitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), 

Streamer embroidered BINI-I THUAN PROVINCE (Companies A and C, 

228th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 2, 1973) 

228TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Coleman, J. D., eel. The 1st Air· Cavalry Division, Vietnam August 1965 to 

December 1969. Tokyo: Dai Nippon Printing Co., 1970. 

Hymoff, Edward . The First Air Cavalry Division. New York: M. W. Lads 

Publishing Co., 1967. 

Mertel, Kenneth D. "Can Do." United States Army Aviation Digest 13 

(December 1967):32 - 35. 
229th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per bend tenne and azure, in bend a flash throughout 

between an arrowhead and a demivol conjoined and a 

sword per pale point up all argent. 

On a wreath of the colors, argent and tenne, a buckler 

or bearing three concentric bands gules, all in back of 

two fishhooks saltirewise of the first extending over the 

buckler, palewise an arrowhead azure with point downward extending over the center band and top points 

extending beyond the outer band. 

Winged Assault. 

The wing alludes to flight, the arrowhead symbolizes 

accuracy, the flash refers to swiftness, and the sword to 

combat. T he blue arrowhead symbolizes the 229th Aviation Battalion's Presidential Unit Citations (Army). The 

fishhooks allude to the unit's Valorous Unit Award, 

streamer embroidered FISH HOOK. The buckler represents the defense and counteroffensive phases of the 

campaigns in Vietnam. The color red denotes the Meritorious Unit Commendation, and red and yellow (gold) 

the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, 

awarded to the organization four times. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE 

LINEAGES AND HONORS 

RA 

( 10 1st Airborne Division) 

Constituted l 8 March 1964 in the Regular Army as the 229th Assault 

Helicopter Battalion and assigned to the 11th Air Assault Division. Activated I 9 March 1964 at Fort Benning, Georgia. Reorganized and redesignated l July 1965 as the 229th Aviation Battalion; concurrently, relieved 

from assignment to the 11th Air Assault Division and assigned to the 1st 

Cavalry Division. Inactivated 22 August 1972 at Fort Hood, Texas, and 

relieved from assignment to the 1st Cavalry Division. Assigned 21 September 1978 to the lOlst Airborne Division and activated at Fort Campbell, 

Kentucky. 

132 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

VieiiUilll 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase Ill 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

DECORATIONS 

Tet 69/Coullte•·offellsive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase Vll 

Consolidation I 

Consolidalion II 

Cease-Fire 

133 

Presidential Unit Citatio n (Army), Streamer embroidered PLEI KU 

PROVINCE (229th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 40, 1967) 

Presidential Unit Citatio n (Army), Streamer embroidered BINH LONG 

PROVINCE (229th Aviation Battalion [less Company C), cited; DA GO 19, 

1974, as amended by DA GO 18, 1979) 

Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered FISH HOOK (229th Aviation Batlalion cited; DA GO 43, 1972) 

Meritorious Unit Comme ndation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1965-1966 (229th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 17, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of GaUantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1965 - 1969 (229th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 59, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1965- 1969 (229th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 59, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidct·cd VIETNAM 1970- 1971 (229th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 42, 

1972) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidet·ed VIETNAM 1971 - 1972 (229th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 54, 

1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1969 - 1970 (229th Aviation Battalion cited; DA 

GO 42, 1972) 

Companies C and D each ad ditionally entitled to Presidential Unit 

Citation (Army), Streamer embroidered BINH THUAN PROVINCE (Companies C and D, 229th Aviatio n Battalion, cited; DA GO 2, 1973) 

229TH AVIATION B ATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Albright,J ohn, Cash,J o hn A., and Sandstrum, Allen W. SevenFi1·eFights 

In Vietnam. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1970. 

Coleman, J . D. ed. The 1st Air Cavalry Division Vietnam August 1965 to 

DecembeT 1969. Tokyo: Da i Nippon Printing Co., 1970. 

Garland, Albert N., ed. Infantry in Vietnam. Nashville: The Battery Press, 

1982. 
134 

Marshall, S. L.A. The Fields of Bamboo. New York: The Dial Press, 1971. 

Mertel, Kenneth D. Year of the Horse- Vietnam; 1st Air Cavalry in the 

Highlands. New York: Exposition Press, 1968. 

Sykes, Charles S., Jr., comp. Inte1im Report of Operations, 1st Cavaby Division (Airmobile) j uly 1, 1965, to Decembe1· 31, 1966. Albuquerque: lsL 

Cavalry Division Association, 1967. 
230th AVIATION BATT ALI ON 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

None approved . 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 1 April 1971 in the Regular Army as the 230th Aviation 

Battalion and activated at Fort Hood , Texas. Assigned 5 May 197 1 to the 

1st Cavalry Division. Inactivated 30 June 197 1 at Fort Hood, Texas. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

230TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

135 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

267th AVIATION BATT ALI ON 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Desc1iption: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of two dexter wings, 

one pinion at top and the other in base, encircling a 

cross formed by a blue potent charged with three diminished silver potents and an orange counterpotent 

charged with three diminished counterpotents. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors for 

aviation units. The wings and cross simulate rotary wing 

aircraft, and their position is used to represent both the 

control and the evacuation aspects of the organization's 

mission. The colors allude to the unit's wide scope of 

operation and the small "T's" refer to the aviation transport companies under its command and supervision. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the d istinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 25 July 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 267th Aviation Battalion. Activated 25 August 

1967 at Fort Stewart, Georgia. Inactivated 31 January 1972 at Fort Stewart, 

Georgia. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

136 

267TH AVIATION BATT ALI ON BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
268th AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

H ERALDIC ITEMS 

Quarterly tenne and azure on a bend between two mullets or three tri-blade propellers gules. 

Statim Nos Agimus (We Do It Immediately.) 

Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors associated with aviation. The stars and propellers refer to 

leadership and to air operations. The colors red and 

yellow allude to the unit's Vietnam service. The propellers represent the awards of the Republic of Vietnam 

Cross of Gallantry. 

DISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a triskelion, one 

branch up and charged with a verticle black lightning 

bolt, on a black background the wings resting on a continuous scroll with the inscription in black letters "Statim 

Nos Agimus," the "Nos" at top between the wings and 

the words "Statim Agimus" in base. 

Symbolism: The silver triskelion simulates the rotor blades of a helicopter and with the wings refer to the mission of the 

unit. Silve1· and black allude to day and night operations. 

The lightning flash, a symbol of speed and urgency, 

refers to the "Do It Now" spirit of the unit, the literal 

translation of the motto "Statim Nos Agimus" being "We 

Do It Immediately." 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(9th Infantry Division) 

Constituted 1 February 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 268th Aviation Battalion, and activated at 

Fort Hood, Texas. Inactivated 21 J anuary 1972 at Fort Lewis, Washington. 

Assigned 1 September 1981 to the 9th Infantry Division and activated at 

Fort Lewis, Washington (organic companies concurrently constituted and 

activated). 

137 
138 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietn<tm 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase 111 

Tel Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Coumeroffensive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Counteroffensive 

DECORATIONS 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter-Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase Vll 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 (268th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 

1969, as amended by DA GO 46, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969-1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

268th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

269th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

268TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
269th AVIATION BATT ALI ON 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

DescTiption: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of an equilateral 

triangle one angle up formed by three yellow bars with 

overlapping ends surmounted by a vertical crossbowquarrel with a lightning flash radiating diagonally outwards and upwards from each side of the quarrel shaft 

immediately above the feathers and crossing the side 

bards of the equilateral triangle all on a blue cinquefoil 

shaped base. 

Symbolism: The golden colored triangle represents a three runway 

complex on an airfield. The quarrel symbolizes aircraft 

using these runways, while the two flashes allude to an 

aviation battalion's capability to provide a ground control approach and aircraft communication and control 

facilities. The blue represents the sky. It is also associated with aviation units. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (nondivisional) 

Constituted 7 April 1966 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Detachment, 269th Aviation Battalion. Activated 1 July 

1966 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Reorganized and redesignated I 

December 1968 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 269th 

Aviation Battalion. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase 11 

Counteroffensive, Phase III 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counte roffensive, Phase IV 

Coumeroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

T et 69/Coume roffensive 

Summer-Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 11 

139 
140 

DECORATIONS 

Meritorious Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 269th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 48, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroideJ·ed VIETNAM 1967 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 269th 

Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 22, 1968) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967- 1968 (269th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 21, 

1969, as amended by DA GO 46, 1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1968 (269th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 48, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Pa lm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1968- 1970 (269th Aviation Battalion cited ; DA GO 5, 

1973, and DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embroidered VIETNAM 1967- 1970 (269th Aviation Battalion cited; DA 

GO 51, 1971) 

Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer 

embmidered VIETNAM 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

269th Aviation Battalion, cited ; DA GO 55, 1971 ) 

269TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Kambrod, Matthew R. "Black Barons." United States Am~y Aviation Digest 

14 (October 1968):32- 33. 

Rottman, Larry, ed. The 25th Infantry Division "TrofJic Lightning" I Oct 

66- 1 Oct 67. Doraville, Georgia: Albert Love Enterprises, 1967. 
307th AVIATION BATT ALI ON 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DIST INCTIVE 1NS1GNIA (BADGE) 

DescTiption: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of a gray triangle 

with extended silver wings in front of a blue circle 

charged in upper portions with two silver lightning 

flashes, pierced above the wings on either side, all behind 

a black triangle with barbed points, surmounted by a 

silver cobra poised to strike, in base a silver scroll with 

blue backing looped over extreme ends of gray triangle, 

pierced in center and bearing the inscription "Search 

and Destroy" in black letters. 

Symbolism: The cobra rising up over the black background represents the constant hovering strike capabilities of the battalion with emphasis on night operations. The barbed 

triangle represents the unit's three primary capabilities: 

reconnaissance, surveillance, and attack. The battalion 

was organized in 1967 from personnel of the provisional "Phantom Battalion" with three surveillance companies and one helicopter company. The gray delta shape 

(gray ghost) alludes to the "Phantom Battalion"; the silver wings represent the historical background of the 

unit's airplane companies; and the cobra refers to the 

armed helicopter company. The lightning flashes on 

the blue circle refer to the battalion's speed in communications and continuous alertness in carrying outt its 

mission. 

fLAG DEVICE: 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(inactive) 

Constituted 20 December 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 307th Aviation Battalion, and activated in 

Vietnam. Inactivated l4June 1971 at Fort Lewis, Washington. Activated 

20 September 1971 in Vietnam. Inactivated 30 January 1972 at Fort 

Lewis, Washington. 

141 
142 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

\fietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase III 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Counteroffensive, Phase VI 

Tct 69/Counteroffensive 

DECORATIONS 

Summer-Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase VII 

Consolidation I 

Consolidation II 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 (307th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 

1969) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1969 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 307th 

Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 1974) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970 (Headquarters and Headquarters Compa ny, 307th 

Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 52, 197 1) 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1970- 1972 (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

307th Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 6, 197 4) 

3 07T H AVIATION B ATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

308th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

None approved. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(inactive) 

Constituted 20 December 1967 in the Regular Army as Headquarters 

and Headquarters Company, 308th Aviation Battalion, and activated in 

Vietnam. Inactivated I July 1968 in Vietnam. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Vietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase Ul 

TeL Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

DECORATIONS 

Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 (308th Aviation Battalion cited; DA GO 21, 

1969) 

308TH AVIATION BATT ALI ON BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

143 
HEADQUARTERS AND 

HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 

309th AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

None approved. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 3 1 July 1971 in the Regular Army as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 309th Aviation Battalion and activated in Korea. 

Inactivated 13 September 1972 in Korea. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

144 

309TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
3llth AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA (BADGE) 

Description: A silver distinctive insignia consisting of an orange triblade aeropropeller with one blade up, and issuing from 

its hub, three arrowheads, one between each blade, on a 

dark blue area that is inclosed above by an arched nebuly, 

passing behind the vertical blade across the top and conjoining the upper terminals of a light blue V-shaped 

scroll passing over the blades, and inscribed on the left 

"BLADES" and on the right "OF FORCE" in silver. 

Symbolism: Ultramarine blue and golden orange are the colors used 

for aviation. The propeller and nebuly are symbolic of 

aircraft. They, along with the arrowheads, represent military preparedness and leadership and indicate the overall mission and capabilities of the unit. The scroll, in the 

form of a Roman numeral V, refers to the Fifth U.S. 

Army area, the historical home area of the unit. 

FLAG DEVICE 

The flag device is the same as the distinctive insignia (badge). 

L INEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

AR 

(Fifth United States Army) 

Constituted 24 November 1967 in the Army Reserve as the 3llth 

Aviation Company. Assigned 1 J anuary 1968 to the Fifth United States 

Army and activated at St. Louis, Missouri. Inactivated 15 April 1971 at St. 

Louis, Missouri. Redesignated 16 April 1980 as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 311 th Aviation Battalion, and activated at Grand 

Prairie, Texas. 

Home Area: Fifth United States Army 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPAT ION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

3 11TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 

145 
50lst AVIATION BATTALION 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Azure within an annulet argent enveloped by wings 

inverted or, an eagle's head erased of the second emitting from its eye a flash overall to base in pale tenne 

fimbriated of the second. 

None approved. 

The Warding Eye. 

Teal blue is the color formerly used for aviation units. 

All design elements allude to the mission of the unit. 

The annulet is symbolic of a lens and refers to reconnaissance, aerial observation and surveillance as well as 

representing armor (a link of chain mail). The wings 

represent aviation, aerial transport, and (around the 

annulet) aerial photography. The flash, in the colors of 

the Signal Corps, refers to communication functions. 

The eagle's head alludes to the keen vision and high 

standards of the unit. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of a1·ms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (1st Armored Division) 

Constituted 15 February 1957 in the Regular Army as the 50 1st Aviation Company, assigned to the 1st Armored Division, and activated at 

Fort Polk, Louisiana. Reorganized and redesignated 3 February 1962 as 

Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 501st Aviation Battalion 

(organic elements concurrently constituted and activated). (Company A 

inactivated 1 September 1966 in Vietnam.) Battalion (less Company A) 

inactivated 24June 1967 at Fort Hood, Texas. Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 50 1st Aviation Battalion, reorganized and redesignated 21 August 1972 as the Aviation Company, l st Armored Division, 

and activated in Germany. Reorganized and redesignated 21 August 

1978 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 50 1st Aviation Battalion (organic elements concurrently activated). 

146 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Company A entitled to the following: 

\lietnam 

Advisory 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase 11 

DECORATIONS 

147 

Company A entitled to Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Streamer 

embt·oidered DONG XOAI (Company A, 50lst Aviation Battalion, cited; 

DA GO 43, 1966) 

5 01ST AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Becton, Julius W., and Thompson, Ed gar A. "J ayhawk Aviation." United 

States Army Aviation Digest 27 (February 198 1):7 - 9. 
502d AVIATION BATT ALI ON 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolisrn: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Per chevron dovetailed argent and sable, in chief a pair 

of wi ngs conjoined azure a nd in base two ligh tning 

flashes chevronwise tenne fimbriated of the first. 

None approved. 

First to Know. 

Ultramarine blue is the color used by aviation units, and 

with white alludes to the sky and the clouds. The black 

chevron represents armor as the spea rhead of land 

assault and the dovetail partition suggests the close association of the aviation battalion with the armored elements of the division. The lightning Dashes are symbolic 

of radio relay and radar surveillance. 

D ISTINCTIVE I NSIGNIA 

The d istinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

LINEAGE 

RA 

(2d Armored Division) 

Constituted 1 July 1957 in the Regular Army as the 502d Aviation 

Company, assigned to the 2d A1·mored Division, and activated in Germany. 

Reorganized and redesignated 22 July 1963 as Headquarters and H eadquarters Company, 502d Aviation Battalion (organic elements constituted 31 May 1963 and activated 22 July 1963). (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 502d Aviation Battalion, reorganized and redesignated 

I December 1963 as Headquarters and Headqua rters Detachment, 502d 

Aviation Battalion; Company A inactivated 1 September 1966 in Vietnam.) 

Battalion (less Company A) inactivated 24 J unc 1967 at Fort Hood, Texas. 

Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 502d Aviation Battalion, 

redesignated 1 October 1973 as the Aviation Company, 2d Armored 

Division, and activated at Fort Hood, T exas. Inactivated 1 October 1979 

at Fort Hood, T exas. Redesignated 1 October 1980 as Headquarters and 

Headquarters Company, 502d Aviation Battalion, and activated at Fort 

Hood, Texas (Company D concurrently activated; Company E activated 

16 December 1980). 

118 
CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Company A entitled to the following: 

Vietnam 

Adviso•·y 

Defense 

Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase I I 

DECORATIONS 

149 

Company A entitled to Valo rous Unit Award , Streamer embroidered 

CHUONG TIEN (Company A, 502d Aviation Battalion, cited ; DA GO 34, 

1966), Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered PLEI ME (Compa ny 

A, 502d Aviation Batta lion, cited; DA GO 20, 1967), and Republic of 

Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 

1965 (Company A, 502d Aviation Battalion, cited; DA GO 46, 1968) 

5020 AVIATION BATT ALI ON B IBLIOGRAPHY 

Dutchak, Eugene, ed. 2d Arrno1·ed Division, Ft. Hood Texas, 1961-1962. 

Topeka: J osten Military Publications, 1962. 

Lambright, Odis J. "2d Armored Division." United States Army Aviation 

Digest 26 (August 1980):7. 

2d Ann01·ed Division, "Hell on Wheels." Ft. Hood, Texas, 1965. Baton Rouge: 

Army and Navy Publishing Co., 1965. 
503d AVIATION BATTALION 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: Azure a mullet at honor point argent over all a pile 

reversed counterchanged . 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

None approved . 

Vision Support and Succor. 

Teal blue and white are the colors formerly used for 

aviation battalions. The white star· symbolizes guidance 

and is a lso used as an identification marking on aircraft. 

The reversed pile terminating in a star alludes to reconnaissance from the sky and the blue tip of the pile simulates an aircraft in flight. 

DISTI NCTIVE I NSIGN IA 

T he distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

L INEAGE 

RA 

(3d Armored Division) 

Constituted 1 October 1957 in the Regular Army as the 503d Aviation Company, assigned to the 3d Armored Division, and activated in 

Europe. Reorganized and redesignated 1 September 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarte1·s Company, 503d Aviation Battalion (organic elements constitu ted 2 1 June 1963 and activated 1 September 1963). 

(Company A inactivated 15 J anuary 1967 in Europe.) Battalion (less Company A) inactivated 5 june 1967 in Europe. Headquarters and Headquarters Company redesignated 21 November 1972 as the Aviation Company, 

3d Armored Division, and activated in Germany. Reorganized and redesignated 21 September 1978 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 

503d Aviation Battalion (Companies A and B concurrently activated; 

334th Aviation Company [organized 10 November 1966 in Vietnam] 

concurrently reorganized and redesignated as Company C). 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

Company C entilled to the following: 

150 

Vietnam 

Counteroffensive, Phase II 

Counteroffensive, Phase Ill 

Tet Counteroffensive 

Coume1·offensivc, Phase IV 

Counteroffensive, Phase V 

Coumeroffcnsive, Phase VI 

Tet 69/Countel·offensive 

Summer- Fall 1969 

Winter- Spring 1970 

Sanctuary Counteroffensive 

Counteroffensive, Phase Vll 
151 

DECORATIONS 

Company C entitled to Valorous Unit Award, Streamer embroidered 

SUO! TRE (334th Aviation Company cited; DA GO 17, 1968), Meritorious 

Unit Commendation, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967 (334th Avaition Company cited; DA GO 48, 1968), Republic of Vietnam Cross of 

Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1966- 1967 (334th 

Aviation Company cited; DA GO 22, 1968), Republic of Vietnam Cross 

of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1967-1968 

(334th Aviation Company cited; DA GO 21, 1969), Republic of Vietnam 

Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered VIETNAM 1971 

(334th Aviation Company cited; DA GO 54, 1974), and Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class, Streamer embroidered 

VIETNAM 1969- 1970 (334th Aviation Company cited; DA GO 55, 1971) 

503D AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Geishauser, Tony. "Charlie Company Goes To England." United States 

Amty Aviation Digest 25 (May 1979):43- 47. 
504th AVIATION BATT ALI ON 

COAT OF ARMS 

Shield: 

Crest: 

Motto: 

Symbolism: 

HERALDIC ITEMS 

Parti per sal tire azure and lozengy of the like and argent, 

in chief two wings conjoined in leure displayed of the 

last in base a mullet of eight points silver. 

None approved. 

By Our Deeds Alone. 

The blue and white patterned background refers to the 

arms of Bavaria, the battalion's first overseas assignment. 

Wings are for the aviation function. The star alludes to 

Texas, the Lone Star State, where the unit was activated. 

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA 

The distinctive insignia is the shield and motto of the coat of arms. 

LINEAGE AND HONORS 

RA 

LINEAGE (inactive) 

Constituted 1 April 1957 in the Regular Army as the 504th Aviation 

Company, assigned to the 4th Armored Division, and activated at Fort 

Hood, Texas. Reorganized and redesignated 10 September 1963 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 504th Aviation Battalion (organic 

elements constituted 19 June 1963 and activated 10 September 1963). 

(Company A inactivated 15 J anuary 1967 in Germany.) Battalion (less 

Company A) inactivated 5 June 1967 in Germany. 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT 

None. 

DECORATIONS 

None. 

152 

504TH AVIATION BATTALION BIBLIOGRAPHY 

No published histories. 
Glossary of Lineage Terms 

ACTIVATE. To bring into being or establish a unit that has been constituted. 

Usually personnel and equipment are assigned at this time; however, a unit 

may be active at zero strength, that is, without personnel or equipment. This 

term was not used before 192 1. It is never used when referring to Army 

National Guard units, and only since World War II has it been used in connection with Army Reserve units. (See also ORGANIZE.) 

ALLOT. To assign a unit to one of the components of the United States Army. 

The present components of the Army are the Regular A1·my (RA), the A.-my 

National Guard (ARNG), and the Army Reserve (AR), which was formerly 

known as the Organized Reserves and the Organized Reserve Corps. During 

World Wa1· I units were also allotted to the National Army, and during World 

War II to the Army of the United States. A unit may be withdrawn from any 

component except the Army National Guard and allotted to another. The 

new allotment, however, does not change the history, lineage, and honors of 

the unit. 

ASSIGN. To make a unit part of a large1· organization and place it under that 

organization's command and control until it is relieved from the assignment. 

As a rule, only divisional and separate brigade assignments are shown in unit 

lineages. 

CONSOLIDATE. To merge or combine two or more units into one new unit. The 

new unit may retain the designation of one of the original units or it may have 

a new designation, but it inherits the history, lineage, and honors of all of the 

units affected by the merger. In the nineteenth century, consolidation was 

frequently a merger of several understrength units to form one full-strength 

unit. At the present time, in the Regular Army and the Army Reserve, units 

are usually consolidated when they are inactive or when only one of the units 

is active; the1·efore, personnel and equipment are seldom involved. In the 

Army National Guard, on the other hand, active units are often consolidated, 

and their personnel are combined in the new unit. 

CONSTITUTE. To place the designation of a new unit on I' he official rolls of the 

Army. 

CONVERT. To transfer a unit from one branch of the Army to another, for 

example, from infantry to armor. Such a move always requires a redesignation, 

with the unit adopting the name of its new branch; however, there is no break 

in the historical continuity of the unit. If the unit is active, it must also be 

reorganized under a new table of o rganization and equipment (TOE). 

DEMOBILIZE. To remove the designation of a unit from the official rolls of the 

Army. If the unit is active, it must also be inactivated. This term is used in unit 

lineages only when referring to the period during and immediately after 

World War I. (For other periods, see DISBAND.) 

DESIGNATION. The official title of a unit, consisting usually of a number and a 

name. 

DISBAND. To remove the designation of a unit from the official rolls of the 

Army. If the unit is active, it must also be inactivated. 

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154 

ELEMENT. A unit that is assigned to or part of a larger organization. (See also 

ORGANIC ELEMENT.) 

I NACTIVATE. To place a unit that is not currently needed in an operative status 

without assigned personnel or equipment. The unit's designation, however, is 

retained on the rolls of the Army, and it can be reactivated whenever needed. 

Its personnel and equipment are reassigned to one or more active units, but 

its organizational properties and trophies are put in storage. When the unit is 

activated again, it is assigned new personnel and equipment, but it keeps its 

old history, honors, and organizational properties and trophies. This term has 

been used only since 1921. Before that time, units either remained active or 

were removed from the rolls of the Army. 

ORDER INTO ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE. To place an Army Reserve unit on 

full-time active duty usually during a war or a major crisis, such as the Berlin 

crisis of 1961 - 62. After completing its active duty, the unit may be inactivated or it may be released from active military service, reverting to reserve 

status. This phrase does not apply to Army Reserve units on annual active 

duty training. 

ORGANIC ELEMENT. A unit that is an integral part of a larger organization, for 

example, a lettered company of a battalion or regiment. 

ORGANIZE. To assign personnel and equipment to a unit and make it operative, 

that is, capable of performing its mission. 

RECONSTITUTE. To restore to the official rolls of the Army a unit that has been 

disbanded or demobilized. The reconstituted unit may have a new designation, 

but it retains its former history, lineage, and honors. 

REDESIGNATE. To change a unit's official name or number or both. Redesignation 

is a change of title only; the unit's history, lineage, and honors remain the 

same. Active as well as inactive units can be redesignated, but personnel and 

equipment of an active unit are not changed unless it is reorganized at the 

same time. 

REORGANIZE. To change the structure of a unit in accordance with a new table of 

organization and equipment (TOE), or to change from one type of unit to 

another within the same branch of the Army, for example, from mechanized 

to airborne infantry. (For reorganizations involving a new branch, see 

CONVERT.) When referring to the Army National Guard, however, this term 

also means to organize an active unit again. 

TRANSFER LESS PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT. To move a unit from one place to 

another without its personnel and equipment. The transfer is, therefore, 

merely a move on paper. The unit is usually reorganized at its new location 

with newly assigned personnel and equipment, but it retains its own lineage, 

honors, and organizational properties and trophies. The original personnel 

and equipment are reassigned to one or more units. 

The U.S. Army Center of Military History 

The Center of Military History prepares and publishes histories as required 

by the U.S. Army. It coordinates Army historical matters, including historical 

properties, and supervises the Army museum system. It also maintains liaison 

with public and private agencies and individuals to stimulate interest and study 

in the tield of military history. The Center is located at 20 Massachusetts Avenue, 

N.W., Washington, D.C. 20314-0200. 
DefJartment of the Army Historical Advisory Committee 

Roger A. Beaumont, Texas A&M University 

Col. Roy K. Flint, U.S. Military Academy 

155 

Mqj. Gen. Robert H. Forman, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command 

Col. Louis D. F. Frasche, U.S. Army Command and General Staff College 

John H. H atcher, The Adjutant General Center 

L. Eugene Hedberg, American Enterprise Institute fo r Public Research 

Maj. Ge~ . Edward .J. Huycke, Deputy Surgeon General, U.S. Army 

Archer Jones, North Dakota State University 

Jamie W. Moore, The Citadel 

James O'Neill, National Archives and Records Service 

Charles P. Roland, University of Kentucky 

Donald W. Smythe, John Carroll University 
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