As is almost always the case in Army insignia, the Combat Service ID Badge (CSIB) of the U.S. Army Element, United States Central Command uses the same design as the color version of organization’s Shoulder Sleeve Insignia. The gold background is the heraldic color for excellence and high achievement, while the black used for the border and parts of the sword’s blade and handguard represent dependability, determination, and constancy.
An upraised sword, combined with the shieldlike design of the entire insignia, denote military preparedness and alertness, while the palm wrapped around the sword suggests the geographic area of operations for the Command while also serving as the emblem for victory.
United States Central Command was activated by President Ronald Reagan on 1 January 1983 as the successor to the short-lived Rapid Deployment Joint Task Force, which was created in response to the failed 1980 attempt to end the Iran hostage crisis. Its Area of Responsibility includes the Middle East (including Egypt despite its African location), Central Asia, and some portions of South Asia.
Related Items
Army Element, United States Central Command Patch (SSI)
Army Element, United States Central Command Unit Crest (DUI)