396th Combat Support Hospital, US Army

396TH COMBAT SUPPORT HOSPITAL, US ARMY

Official blazon

A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in diameter overall, consisting of a maroon disc bearing a silver wheel superimposed by two white crossed stretchers, overall at center a silver disc bearing a red fleur-de-lis, the wheel encircled at top by the inscription “CARING FOR THE BEST” and at bottom two crossed branches of laurel all in silver.

Origin/meaning

Maroon and white (silver) are colors traditionally associated with the Army Medical Corps. White (silver) suggests integrity and maroon recalls blood. The wheel represents service as a Mobile Hospital in World War I and the stretchers denote World War II service as an Evacuation Hospital. The fleur-de-lis alludes to service in Europe and the unit’s baptism of fire in France. Laurel stands for honor and high ideals. The stretchers form a cross symbolizing care, medical service and the unit’s mission while the wheel implies speed and adaptability.

The Distinctive Unit Insignia was approved on 22 December 1992. Literature: Image and Inforamtion from The Institute of Heraldry, US Army.