Today's patch comes from the Military Patches category; it's the 173rd Airborne patch with a blue background, what appears to be white eagle feathers, and a red sword. Like all the other patches from the Army's Airborne Division, this one has its own unique look and feel. It's fairly small too, at 3"x4.5".
The 173rd is one of the airborne infantry combats team that's part of the U.S. Army. The brigade was originally formed in 1915 as the primary infantry force for European operations. They saw extensive action in both World Wars, but really made a name for themselves in WWII. The brigade encountered its most heroic actions in Vietnam where it lost 1,800 soldiers and earned almost 6,000 purple hearts. In 1972 the force returned to the United States and was deactivated. They were reactivated in 2000 in order to assist in Middle East operations.
If you're a former member of the 173rd Airborne this patch deserves a place among the rest of your decorations. Perhaps you could add it to a display case collection, attach it to your fishing hat, or sew it to your leathers if you're a biker. Regardless, you have earned the recognition due you by your brave actions on the battlefield. For those of us who are not 173rd members, we will refrain from wearing of this patch publicly. For us it will be part of a collection or a gift to give to others.
