Originally constituted in the Army Reserve on 31 January 1966 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 353rd Civil Affairs Area, the 353rd Civil Affairs Command received its current designation on 1 June 1975. Headquartered in Staten Island, New York, the Command is responsible for two Civil Affairs brigades, the 304th and 308th, and supports Geographic Combatant Commander mission requirements with a special emphasis on U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) operations.
The 353rd Civil Affairs Command Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, or unit patch, was approved 10 February 1977, with the color version of the insignia crafted exclusively in the Civil Affairs branch colors of purple and white. In its center are three elements—a quill pen, a sword, and a crown—that symbolize the planning, training, and preparation necessary to effectively carry out the Civil Affairs mission in nations where U.S. forces are or may be operating. This trio of objects also emphasizes the three tenets of the Command's unit motto, "Order Government Freedom." A torch stands above all three as an emblem of guidance and leadership, and behind it is a stairstep design that simulates the Manhattan skyline in recognition of its previous home area in the Bronx.
Related Items
353rd Civil Affairs Command Unit Crest (DUI)
353rd Civil Affairs Command Combat Service ID Badge (CSIB)