The 353rd Civil Affairs Command Distinctive Unit Insignia was originally approved on 27 May 1970 while the unit was still designated as the 353rd Civil Affairs Area. A stylized human figure in its center represents the human component of Civil Affairs operations, with a sealed scroll on its right denoting the creation of order through the rule of law; combined with the golden rays of sunlight, this symbolizes a government promoting civil order with human freedom. An enflamed globe and a sword on the figure’s left are an allusion to the aftermath of battle while referencing the organization’s political and military capabilities. The sum of the unit’s various mission objectives is summed up in the unit motto “Order Government Freedom.”
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 (ASU, Enlisted only) with the base of the insignia toward the outside shoulder seam. Current regulations do not permit the DUI to be worn on the Dress variations of either uniform, however.
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An example of the 353rd Civil Affairs Command's dedication to providing stable government and civilian infrastructure can be found in its work during Operation Provide Comfort following the successful effort to eject Iraqi forces from Kuwait during the First Gulf War. To help protect and sustain the Kurds that were under vicious attack by Saddam Hussein’s forces in the north of Iraq, the Command played a critical role in overseeing and integrating the relief efforts of more than three dozen nations attempting to transport humanitarian aid to the region. On the fly, the Command created a database for managing relief supplies called the Disaster Assistance Logistics Information System that coordinated distribution of resources, saving an untold number of lives through increased efficiency and speedier delivery.
As of Autumn 2023, the 353rd Civil Affairs Command is a major subordinate unit in the United States Army Reserve Civil Affairs & Psychological Operations Command (Airborne). Headquartered on Staten Island, it consists of the 304th and 308th Civil Affairs Brigade and the 2nd Psychological Operations Group.
Related Items
353rd Civil Affairs Command Patch (SSI)
353rd Civil Affairs Command Combat Service ID Badge (CSIB)