Created by the War Department in 1921 as the District of Washington and redesignated under its current title in 1942, the United States Army Military District of Washington (MDW) is one of the Army’s nineteen major commands and is headquartered at For Lesley J. McNair in Washington, D.C. Several installations fall under the control of the Military District, including Forts Belvoir, Walker (known as Fort A. P. Hill prior to August 2023), Hamilton, and Meade, along with Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Although much of its activity involves ceremonial proceedings, it is tasked with a combat role in the defense of the larger National Capital Region.
Originally approved for Headquarters, Military District of Washington on 6 September 1968, the Distinctive Unit Insignia (AKA “unit crest”) for the U.S. Army Military District of Washington was first approved by amending the old insignia to remove “Headquarters” from the designation on 28 October 1968; it was then redesignated to recognize the District’s current title on 21 July 1971. Red, white, and blue used in the shield are the National colors and a reference to the seat of government in Washington, D.C., with the dome-shaped blue portion of the shield recalling the rotunda of the United States Capital building.
A gold star symbolizes the official ceremonies conducted by the District’s Command for the President, visiting dignitaries, and recipients of special honors, as well as for military funerals and other state functions. The oak leaves encircling the upper portion of the oval-shaped shield represent courage and strength, while the crossed swords denote the Command’s responsibility to defend the country’s capital; this mission is reiterated by the Latin phrase HAEC PROTEGIMUS: “This We Guard.”
Also known as a unit crest or DUI, a Distinctive Unit Insignia (DUI) is worn by all Soldiers (except General Officers) in units that have been
authorized to be issued the device. Full guidance on wear of the DUI is found in DA Pamphlet 670-1,
Section 21-22, "Distinctive unit insignia" and 21–3(d) and (e),
"Beret" and
"Garrison Cap," respectively.
Related Items
Military District of Washington Patch (SSI)