196th Infantry Brigade

Authorised 29 October 1965

On an oblong blue shield at both ends, 3 inches (7.62 cm) in height and 2 inches (5.08 cm) in width overall a yellow double headed match crossed and looped at the bottom and enflamed at both ends.

The color blue is used to denote Infantry. The yellow and red allude to the Cavalry and the Artillery. The double headed match, used during the days of the matchlock musket, was lighted at both ends to insure readiness.

The shoulder sleeve insignia was approved on 29 October 1965. (TIOH Dwg. No. A-1-403)

Authorised 1 March 1966

A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in width overall consisting of a blue powder horn with a red string looped about a yellow vertical arrow, the arrowhead on the center fold of a silver scroll arched from the ends of the powder horn simulating a bow, between the motto "AHEAD OF THE REST" in black.

The powder horn, an American symbol for readiness of a rifleman, is used to denote the organization's preparedness. The arrow and the bow-like scroll refer to the bow and arrow on the seal of the state of Massachusetts alluding to the home area of the Brigade. The colors are for the three basic combat arms of an ARSTRIKE Brigade: Blue, Infantry; red, Artillery; yellow, Armor.

The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 1 March 1966.

A gold color metal and enamel device 2 inches (5.08 cm) in height consisting of a design similar to the shoulder sleeve insignia.