Heraldry - Massachusetts Army National Guard Element, Joint Force Headquarters

TIOH - Heraldry - Massachusetts Army National Guard Element, Joint Force Headquarters

Shoulder Sleeve Insignia

Description

On a red pentagonal background 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) in diameter with one side up a yellow and blue wreath supporting a right arm bent at the elbow, clothed and ruffled, the hand grasping a broad sword, all yellow.

Symbolism

The design is that of the crest of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts which was adopted 13 December 1780.  The right arm, bent at the elbow, is an ancient European heraldic symbol which is thought to symbolize the arm of God.

Background

The shoulder sleeve insignia was originally approved for Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, Massachusetts National Guard on 5 June 1950.  It was redesignated for Headquarters, State Area Command, Massachusetts Army National Guard on 30 December 1983.  It was redesignated retroactive to 1 October 2003 for the Massachusetts Army National Guard Element, Joint Force Headquarters and amended to update the description and add a symbolism. (TIOH Dwg. No. A-1-163)