The 50th Signal Battalion flash (technically “organizational flash”) is worn centered on the stiffener maroon beret that signifies that the unit is Airborne-qualified, with either a non-subdued insignia of grade (Officer) or Distinctive Unit Insignia / Regimental Distinctive Unit Insignia worn centered on the flash.
Ovals, technically called background trimming, are reserved for wear by Battalion personnel who have qualified for the Parachutist or Air Assault Badge, with the authorized badge worn centered on the oval. Worn on the Service Coat of the AGSU or blue Army Service/Dress Uniform, the Service Uniform shirt, or the blue or green Maternity tunic, the combination of oval and badge is counted as a single item for measurement and placement purposes.
The Battalion was originally constituted back in December 1899 as the Company H, Signal Corps and organized in the Philippine Islands, making it one of the few Army units organized overseas. Following consolidation with the 1st Provisional Company, Signal Corps in September 1916, it was first given the designation of 50th Signal Battalion, a designation it would be given once again in 1958 following two reorganizations and three redesignations in just over seven years time.
Since taking part in the Philippine Insurrection conflict immediately following its organization, the Battalion acquired numerous battle honors. These include three campaigns during World War II and five World War II campaigns, all in the European Theater, resulting in an Arrowhead device for its Normandy streamer and a Meritorious Unit Commendation (MUC) for its outstanding service throughout its entire deployment.
Other campaign credits include Operation Power Pack (Dominican Republic) and two Persian Gulf War campaigns, with the Battalion earning an MUC during both actions, as well as the Iraqi Governance campaign in the Iraq theater of the War on Terrorism. In addition to another MUC awarded to the Battalion as a whole for its War on Terrorism service, the unit’s Company B was selected individually for a Valorous Unit Award (2003 service) and an MUC (May 2009-December 2010) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom; Company C was also tapped for an MUC.
As of June 2023, the 50th Expeditionary Signal Battalion-Enhanced (ESB-E) is assigned to the 35th Signal Brigade and headquartered at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg) in North Carolina.
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