New Jersey’s tradition of citizen-soldiers dates back to 1709 when the colony’s militia served as a garrison for New York City. In 1744, the government of New Jersey raised a militia of 500 troops and, thanks to the color of their uniforms, it was soon dubbed the “Jersey Blues.” A new generation of Jersey Blues fought during the American Revolution; two regiments took part in the failed invasion of Canada in 1775, while others that joined the militia in 1777 became part of the “New Jersey Brigade” led by Brigadier General William Maxwell.
These units were discharged in 1776, and four new ones, mustering 1,408 men, were raised in 1777. These regiments served together in the “New Jersey Brigade” commanded by Brigadier General William Maxwell of Sussex County, which earned an excellent combat record. By the end of the war in 1783, two New Jersey Continental regiments, mustering 676 men, were still in service.
More recently, the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Tea (BCT) can trace its heritage to the 50th Armored Division, which was disbanded on September 1, 1993 after serving as a major force in the New Jersey Army National Guard following World War II. Redesignated as the 50th Armored Brigade, it served during homeland security missions following the terrorist strikes of September 11, 2001. The unit's structure was altered to the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team during 2008. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, about 3,200 "Jersey Blues" soldiers served on rotation in Iraq and Afghanistan during 2008 and 2009.
While its design is relatively simple, the shoulder sleeve insignia (Unit Patch) worn by the 50th Infantry BCT pays homage to the unit’s history. The three colors pay homage to the three units that were combined to form the current brigade, and are also a nod to the unit’s affiliation with the 42nd Division, also known as the “Rainbow Division.” Three stars are a tribute to its home state, New Jersey, which was the third state to sign the U.S. Constitution. The inverted triangle symbolizes "V" for victory.
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