Currently based at Fort Carson, the 71st Ordnance Group (EOD) was originally constituted under the same numerical and branch designation as a HQ and HQ Detachment (HHD). Except for brief stint in the late 1940s to mid-1950s, it has retained the 71st Ordnance designation up until today as either a HHD or a HQ and HQ Company (HHC) (but it should also be noted that the unit was inactivated from 1966 until 2005). It is one of only two Explosive Ordnance Disposal Groups in the United States Army, and comprises three EOD Battalions; the 242nd is also based at Fort Cavazos (previously Fort Hood), while the 3rd and 79th are based respectively at Fort Lewis, Washington and Fort Cavazos, Texas.
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The 71st Ordnance Group (EOD) Distinctive Unit Insignia, or unit crest, pays homage to its service during World War II and its basic mission responsibilities as an EOD unit in the Ordnance branch. Crimson and yellow are Ordnance branch colors, with crimson also recalling the Meritorious Unit Commendation the unit earned in World War II. A drawn sword and lightning bolt are crossed, with the upright sword indicating combat readiness and the lightning taken from the EOD ID badge. Five mullets, or stars, represent the five campaigns in which the unit took part in during World War II; much of their combat action took place in France, symbolized by the fleur-de-lis on the bomb. "With Distinction and Valor," the unit motto, frames the insignia, which was approved in 2005.
Related Items71st Ordnance Group Patch (SSI)
71st Ordnance Group Combat Service ID Badge (CSIB)