Better known as a “unit crest” or a DUI, the Distinctive Unit Insignia of the U.S. Army Dental Activity, Fort Benning was approved on 21 October 1980. When the unit was discontinued and subsequently redesignated, this insignia was cancelled and a new one created for it.
In the center of the insignia are a crossed bayonet and a torch, both in silver, superimposed over a maroon Greek cross. Silver is frequently substituted in heraldry for white, the secondary branch color of the Army Medical Corps, while maroon is the primary color and the cross is a frequently used image for Dental and Medical insignia because it is the symbol for both medical service and humanitarian care. The bayonet and torch refer to Fort Benning, home of the Infantry School, with the bayonet signifying branch and the torch denoting learning.
The inner disc with rays emanating from it is a reference to the Kasihta Indians, original inhabitants of the area that eventually became Fort Benning, who believed they were descended from it. “Dedicated To Dentistry,” the unit motto, reinforces the image of the laurel branch, which is an award for dedication.
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The Distinctive Unit Insignia is 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. DUIs are not worn on the Dress variations of either uniform, however.
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.