The design of the 290th Military Police Brigade unit patch, or Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, conveys its mission and identity through symbolism. Its numerical designation can be seen in the two crossed partizans—medieval weapons carried by guards used to block or allow entry—the nine sides of the nonagon, and the yellow circular area recalling a zero: 290. The nonagon itself is reminiscent of prisoner-of-war facilities, particularly temporary structures erected quickly and operated by Military Police Brigades. Yellow and Green are traditional colors used by Military Police. "Custody With Honor," the Brigade's motto, is found on its unit crest (see below).
Colored patches are now worn on the Army Green Service Uniform (AGSU); before 2015, they were worn on the old Class A/B Army Green Uniform. We continue to carry that uniform and related accouterments because of high demand from veterans, uniform collectors, reenactors (including TV and movie production companies), and other organizations. The current equivalent of the colored patch is the Combat Service ID Badge, or CSIB. The subdued patch is worn on the Army Combat Uniform or other utility uniforms.
Related Items
290th Military Police Brigade Unit Crest (DUI)
290th Military Police Brigade Combat Service ID Badge (CSIB)