The 18th Aviation Brigade Distinctive Unit Insignia (DUI), more commonly referred to as a unit crest, was originally approved on 21 September 1966. A crossbow bolt called a quarrel rests over two lightning flashes, all atop an equilateral triangle formed by three intersecting runways. The quarrel symbolizes the aircraft that used the runways, while the two flashes allude to the ability of the unit to use communications to instruct approaching aircraft and keep ground control facilities informed. The equilateral triangle is formed by a three-runway airfield.
Constituted in the Regular Army as HQ and HQ Detachment, 269th Aviation Battalion, the 18th Aviation Brigade would not be given that designation until 17 August 1987. During the Vietnam War, the 269th Aviation Battalion took part in a dozen of the named campaigns of that conflict, earning a Meritorious Unit Commendation, four Republic of Vietnam (ROV) Cross of Gallantry with Palm awards, and two ROV Civil Action Honor Medals, First Class.
After becoming the 18th Aviation Brigade, the unit would take part in all three campaigns of the Gulf War, but it would be deployed just once following the launch of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Following a year-long deployment from 27 November 2004 to 15 November 2005, the 18th Aviation Brigade was awarded a Meritorious Unit Commendation for its service during that period—even though it had been inactivated back in 2006.