Shoulder Sleeve Insignia

Description
On a black oval with a 3/16 inch (.48cm) yellow braided inner border and a 1/8 inch (.32cm) overedge outer border, 2 5/8 inches (6.67cm) in width and 3 1/4 inch (8.26cm) in height overall, a yellow finial spearhead with three yellow bands issuing from base. Attached immediately above as an integral part of the insignia, a black arc tab 1 1/16 inches (2.70cm) in width 2 1/2 inches (6.35cm) in length, containing the inscription "AIRBORNE" 5/16 inch (.79cm) in height in yellow letters.

Symbolism
The shoulder sleeve insignia is adapted from the official seal of the United States Special Operations Command. The color black alludes to special operations activities performed under the cover of darkness. The color yellow represents the quality of excellence as performed by the Command in the Nation's defense. The spearhead suggests the fighting capabilities of the Command. The bands on the spearhead refer to the forces assigned from the Army, Navy and Air Force. The braided border encircling the shield represents strength through jointness.

Background
The shoulder sleeve insignia was originally approved on 15 Sep 1988. It was cancelled and a revised version was authorized on 22 May 1990. The insignia was amended on 14 Aug 1996 to correct the description. It was amended to extend wear to the U.S. Army Element of Joint Special Operations Command and to correct the description on 10 Jun 2002. (TIOH Drawing Number A-1-748)