144th Combat Support Hospital, US Army

144TH COMBAT SUPPORT HOSPITAL, US ARMY

Official blazon

A gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall, consisting of an eight-pointed maroon star with a wide gold border bearing a red Greek cross with a gold arrow issuant from each arm and surmounting two white stretchers crossed saltirewise all within a three-sectioned light blue scroll, arced in base, curving upwards and looped around the upper horizontal points of the star, each inscribed “SKILL,” “SERVICE” and in base “COMPASSION” in gold.

Origin/meaning

Maroon and white are the colors traditionally associated with Medical units. The basic mission of the hospital is symbolized by the cross, a traditional symbol for aid and assistance; the eight-pointed star for regeneration; and along with the arrow and stretchers refer to the preparation and evacuation of patients to other medical facilities.

The Distinctive Unit Insignia was originally approved for the 144th Evacuation Hospital on 3 September 1971. It was redesignated for the 144th Combat Support Hospital, effective 1 December 1993, with description and symbolism revised.

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