142 Signal Brigade
Shoulder Sleeve Insignia
Description
On a white square each side 2 inches (5.08cm) in width overall and with one angle up, four orange barbed lightning flashes arranged per cross and surmounted by a scarlet saltire all within a 1/8 inch (.32cm) orange border.
Symbolism
Orange and white are the branch colors of the Signal Corps. The red saltire is adapted from the Alabama State flag and refers to the unit's location. The radiating lightning flashes and arrowheads symbolize the command control, training and logistic support provided by the unit. The lightning flashes also refer to speed and communications. The shape of the insignia alludes to an early radio antenna.
Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was originally approved for the 142d Signal Brigade on 16 Aug 1978. It was amended to reflect a change in the size of the insignia on 13 Apr 1979.
Distinctive Unit Insignia
Description
A gold color metal and enamel device 1 3/16 inches (3.02cm) in height overall consisting of a diamond-shaped figure divided vertically into black and white enamel areas surmounted by four orange enamel lightning flashes, points inward, saltirewise and extending beyond the diamond shape, issuing from a center disc four gold arrows crosswise all between at top a semi-circular gold scroll behind the ends of the lightning flashes, folded back at each end and inscribed "FOR STATE," in base a scroll of the like inscribed "AND NATION" all in black enamel letters, with pierced areas between the diamond shape and scroll.
Symbolism
The diamond shape alludes to an early radio antenna, the colors black and white referring to the night and day efficiency of the organization. The arrows and disc symbolize the command control, training and logistic support provided by the unit. The lightning flashes saltirewise represent the unit's speed in communications. The saltire was suggested by the Alabama State Flag and alludes to Decatur, Alabama the location of the organization's origin and home station. Orange and white are colors used for the Signal Corps.
Background
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 142d Signal Group on 13 Aug 1971. It was redesignated for the 142d Signal Brigade and amended to revise the symbolism on 15 May 1978.