Often called a unit crest or a DUI for short, the 46th Aviation Battalion Distinctive Unit Insignia was approved on 1 July 1966. A propeller, the main instrument of propulsion for the first several decades of aviation, is a symbol of the the Battalion's forward advances in its mission of reconnaissance and support. The nebuly (patterned round protrusions) is a heraldic device that alludes to the atmosphere, clouds, and so forth as a way to recall the aerial characteristics of the unit.
The 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. DUIs are not worn on the Dress variations of either uniform, however.
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A unit in the 46th Infantry Division of the Michigan Army National Guard, the 46th Aviation Battalion was headquartered at Grand Ledge. When the Division was reduced to Brigade status and assigned to the 38th Infantry Division of the Indiana National Guard, the Battalion was similarly downsized to a single Assault Helicopter Company (Company A, still headquartered at Grand Ledge). With the elimination of the Brigade HQ, it appears that it was incorporated as an organic element of the 38th Infantry Division, i.e., a Combat Aviation Brigade, but this is not clear at this time.