Description
On a red disk 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) in diameter a blue disk 1 7/8 inches (4.76 cm) in diameter within a 1/16 inch (.16 cm) white border and bearing a white Viking’s helmet with details in blue outline.

Symbolism
The circular background is representative of the shield of Thor - God of Thunder - a god of strength, the great defender, a victor in battle. The blue is for Infantry from which came the first units of the National Guard of Minnesota and North Dakota. The red is for Artillery, the second type arm to be organized in the National Guard of Minnesota and North Dakota. The white Viking’s helmet is symbolic of the Viking warriors; brave and fearless men of the North of invincible courage, early explorers, valiant and heroic in war, brilliant organizers of government in peace time. Units of the 47th Infantry Division come from the two Midwestern states of Minnesota and North Dakota - formerly known as the Dakota Territory - pioneered, founded, and built by descendents of the Vikings, loyal sons and daughters of Scandinavian birth.

Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was approved on 28 March 1949. (TIOH Dwg. No. A-1-111)