Also known as a unit crest or DUI, a Distinctive Unit Insignia is worn by all Soldiers (except General Officers) in units that have been
authorized to be issued the device. It is worn centered on the shoulder loops of the Army Green Service Uniform (AGSU) and the blue Army Service Uniform (Enlisted only) with the base of the insignia toward the outside shoulder seam. DUIs are not worn on the Dress variations of either uniform, however.
Enlisted personnel wear the insignia centered on a shoulder loop by placing it an equal distance from the outside shoulder seam to the outside edge of the shoulder-loop button. Officers (except Generals) wearing grade insignia on the shoulder loops center the DUI by placing it an equal distance between the inside edge of the grade insignia and the outside edge of the button.
Full guidance on wear of the DUI is found in DA Pamphlet 670-1,
Section 21-22, "Distinctive unit insignia" and 21–3(d) and (e),
"Beret" and
"Garrison Cap," respectively.
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The Distinctive Unit Insignia of U.S. Army Dental Activity, Landstuhl was approved on 15 September 1980. It was cancelled with an effective date of 30 September 2016, concurrent with the discontinuation of the unit.
Maroon and white, the colors of the Army Dental Command, are used almost exclusively in the design of the insignia. The image of two embattled towers with a cupola and portcullis (castle dome and gate, respectively) between them has been adapted from the coat of arms of the German town of Landstuhl, a choice made not only because that was the unit’s home, but also because the imagery exemplifies support and defense, essential components of dental care.
“The Best Support” was the unit motto.