Approved for wear on 7 September 2007, the design of the 174th Infantry Brigade Distinctive Unit Insignia reflects the Brigade’s motto and firm belief in the notion that citizen soldiers who fought for liberty and a new way of life led the way in making those dreams become a reality. At the bottom of the insignia, a blue lightning flash epitomizes quick response, with the light blue referencing the Infantry and the flash specifically recalling the Brigade’s forebear, the 78th Infantry Division, which was the “Lightning Division.” Silver represents the color white for purity of intention, with the red on the banner standing for the blood shed in valorous sacrifice in battle.
Two stars recall the Division’s campaign participation in both World War I and World War II. Surrounding the base, an oak wreath is a sign of strength and unfettered growth, with acorns serving as an allusion to the building of a new nation following the victory in the fight for independence. The motto PIUM IN CUSPIS is translated, “Patriots On Point.”
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.
As of Autumn 2023, the 174th Infantry Brigade is a U.S. Army Reserve unit stationed at Joint Base McGuire–Dix–Lakehurst in New Jersey. Its mission is to is to train, advise, and assist Reserve Component units based in the Northeast United States to provide Combatant Commands with trained and ready personnel. It consists of four Combat Sustainment Support Battalions and one Logistics Support Battalion.
Related Items
174th Infantry Brigade Patch (SSI)
174th Infantry Brigade Combat Service ID Badge (CSIB)