Insignia
Americal Division
On a blue Norman shield 2 5/8 inches high and 2 1/3 inches wide, four white stars of varying sizes all slightly tipped to the dexter, arranged to represent the Southern Cross.
Symbolism
The four white stars on the blue field are symbolic of the Southern Cross under which the organization has served.
196th Light Infantry Brigade Shoulder Insignia
The color blue is used to denote infantry, the yellow and red symbolize cavalry and artillery. The double-headed match, used during the days of the matchlock musket, is lighted at both ends to ensure readiness.
The 196th was activated 15 September 1965 at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, by General Order Number 266.
Ahead of the Rest
The Massachusetts origin of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade and its connection with early American history is symbolized by a blue powder horn and red carrying strap, denoting infantry and artillery, and by a yellow - for cavalry - vertical arrow from the state seal of the Commonwealth.
Combat Infantryman Badge
The recipient soldier must have been personally present — and under hostile fire — whilst serving primary duty, in either an assigned infantry or a special forces unit, that was actively fighting the enemy in ground combat; said unit might be either of brigade-size or smaller. For example, soldiers with an infantry MOS (military occupational specialty), who are members of a rifle squad organic to a cavalry platoon, in a cavalry troop, would be eligible for the CIB. Battle or campaign participation credit, alone, is insufficient; the unit must have fought the enemy in active ground combat in that assigned-duty time.