Description
On a red square approximately 3 3/8 inches (8.57 cm) on a side a yellow “Thunderbird” displayed and wings inverted 1 7/8 inches (4.76 cm) in height, 1 5/8 inches (4.13 cm) in width, the square to be worn point up.

Symbolism
The 45th Division was composed of Army National Guard troops of Colorado, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Arizona. As the territory was originally explored and settled by the Spanish, the insignia is gold and red, the Spanish colors. The “Thunderbird” is an Indian symbol meaning sacred bearer of happiness unlimited. The four sides of the insignia represent the four states comprising the Division.

Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was originally approved for the 45th Division on 22 May 1939. It was redesignated for the 45th Infantry Brigade on 11 July 1968. The insignia was redesignated for the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team with the description and symbolism updated on 1 July 2010. (TIOH Dwg. No. A-1-109)