The 278th Chemical Battalion Distinctive Unit Insignia, commonly called a “unit crest” or a DUI, was approved on 28 March 2003. Cobalt blue and golden yellow, branch colors of the Chemical Corps, are used respectively for the scroll at the bottom and text upon it of the unit motto, DEFENSORI VISIUM, Latin for “Protectors Of The Force.”
According to The Institute of Heraldry, the scarlet saltire (“x” shape) with yellow fimbriation (fringe) “suggests the courageous spirit of the personnel in the battalion.” Additionally, the saltire, also called a Saint Andrew’s cross, is adapted from the flag of Alabama (the unit is in the Alabama Army National Guard).
Dragons are often used in the heraldry of Chemical Corps units, and here a dragon rampant symbolizes both power and vigilance and recalls the fire and destruction that can be unleashed through chemical warfare. Four blue stars surrounding the dragon commemorate four battle honors earned by the unit’s predecessors serving in Europe during World War II.
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Also known as a unit crest or DUI, a 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.
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.As of Autumn 203, the 278th Chemical Battalion appears to be inactive at the time of this writing,.