The 8th Medical Brigade is a medical brigade of the United States Army Reserve subordinate to the 3rd Medical Command) and headquartered at Fort Wadsworth, New York.
Insignia.
Shoulder Sleeve Insignia.
Description.
On a maroon octagon 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) in height overall bearing a white Greek cross surmounted by a yellow crown of seven points, (six points extending beyond the cross) all within a 1/8 inch (.32 cm) white border.
Symbolism.
The Greek cross, a symbol of aid and assistance is used to represent the 8th Medical Brigade. The crown alluding to New York referred to as the "Empire State" was suggested by the Statue of Liberty in New York harbor. In numerology the number eight symbolizes regeneration and achievement. The octagon shape furthermore alludes to the numerical designation of the 8th Medical Brigade. Maroon and white are colors used for the Army Medical Department.
Background.
The shoulder sleeve insignia was approved on 16 July 1976. (TIOH Dwg. No. A-1-594)
Distinctive Unit Insignia.
Description.
A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall consisting chevronwise of a black embattled partition line above a silver metal wingless caduceus surmounting a maroon Greek cross on a green background and all encircled by a continuous maroon scroll, divided in three folds and inscribed "STRENGTH THROUGH HEALTH" in silver letters.
Symbolism.
Maroon and white are the colors used for the Army Medical Department. The cross, a symbol for aid and assistance, symbolizes the basic mission of the Brigade. The caduceus and the color green, a reference to the color of the ancient gowns of medicine, represents the high ideals and traditions of the healing arts. The entwined serpents also simulate the number "8" referring to the organization's numerical designation. The embattled partition line, representing a segment of early coastal fortification, alludes to the early history of Fort Hamilton, the present home area and location of the 8th Medical Brigade.
Background.
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 13 September 1976.
Combat Service Identification Badge.
Description/Blazon.
A silver color metal and enamel device 2 inches (5.08 cm) in height consisting of a design similar to the shoulder sleeve insignia.
History.
Upon its establishment in 1976, and for many years afterwards, the 8th Medical Brigade was reputed to be the largest medical brigade in the Army, active or reserve.
The 8th Medical Brigade replaced the 818th Hospital Center, which had served as the major medical command and control headquarters in the northeast, when it relocated to Fort Gillem, Georgia, with an effective date of 15 July 1976. Many members of the brigade's initial staff had been members of 818th before it relocated, and its first commander had once served as the deputy hospital canter commander.
In 2004-2005, the 8th Medical Brigade headquarters sent a detachment to provide command and control over medical units providing support in Kuwait.