U.S. ARMY, NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANIZATION (NATO) UNIT CREST (DUI)

A large chevron in black—the color of solidarity and strength—with a gold trim (gold is the color for excellence and high achievement) form the focal point of the U.S. Army North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Distinctive Unit Insignia (DUI), or unit crest. Superimposed on the chevron are a pair of olive branches, a traditional sign of peace but also of dedication and achievement. The blue four-pointed NATO star is a symbol of support for the organization, while the two halves of the shield, joined by a sword, illustrate the organization’s mission of defense.

A mullet (star) on the blue half of the shield and a lion rampant signify command authority and courage, respectively, while the ultramarine blue and scarlet fields of the shield suggest a worldwide capability and the willingness to sacrifice for good.

The U.S. Army NATO Distinctive Unit Insignia was approved on 16 May 2001, more than fifty years after the original signing of the NATO Treaty on 4 April 1949 that created a network of collective defense, with signatories agreeing to come to the aid of treaty members when attacked by any external country or party. Originally comprising a dozen countries, the number of members has grown to thirty-one following the addition of Finland on 4 April 2023.

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Distinctive Unit Insignias are worn by all Soldiers (except General Officers) in units that have been authorized to be issued the device. It is worn centered on the shoulder loops of the Army Green Service Uniform (AGSU) and the blue Army Service Uniform (ASU, Enlisted only) with the base of the insignia toward the outside shoulder seam. Current regulations do not permit the DUI to be worn on the Dress variations of either uniform, however.

More 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.

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U.S. ARMY, NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANIZATION (NATO) UNIT CREST (DUI)