Approved for wear on 9 March 1988, the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade Shoulder Sleeve Insignia features a profile view of the head of the mythical griffin (body of a lion, head and wings of an eagle) superimposed on a flame reaching skyward. Rendered in ultramarine blue, the griffin is a symbol of alertness, courage, and speed, all attributes of the Brigade (which takes its nickname of Griffins from the creature. The fire’s dozen golden orange flames reflect the Brigade’s numerical designation as well as the combat capabilities of the unit, and the Ultramarine blue field represents the sky.
Originally constituted in June 1965 as the 12th Aviation Group, the unit took part in every campaign of the Vietnam War. Embodying the unit motto of AD EXCELSUM CONAMUR (“Strive For Excellence), the Brigade’s was awarded several U.S. military medals, and was given the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm as astonishing four time, as well as a Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class.
Following redesignation from 12th Aviation Brigade to 12th Combat Aviation Brigade in October 2006, many of the Brigade’s subordinate units deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Despite having all but one Battalion serving under the command of another military headquarters, they were awarded with a Meritorious Unit Citation as they spread the “Wings of Victory” over
Southwest Asia, solidifying the gains made by U.S. and Coalition forces in the previous few years.
Related Items:12th Combat Aviation Brigade Combat Service ID Badge (CSIB)12th Combat Aviation Brigade Unit Crest (DUI)