Services
Unit Crest for the U.S. Army Medical Department Activity, Fort Hood
Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center
The distinctive badge, originally approved for the U.S. Darnall Army Hospital on September 9, 1969, was re-designated for the U.S. Army Medical Department Activity, Fort Hood on August 30,1973.
The badge is a gold color metal and enamel device 1 inches in height overall, consisting of a white enamel star surmounted by a heraldic water bouget. The upper part is light green enamel and the lower part has three wavy bands of alternating blue and white enamel. Above and between the two points at the base of the star is an arc divided into three sections. The upper section has an acute angle with equal gold sides, and the lower section is divided from right to left with blue and red enamel (simulating the Armor shoulder sleeve insignia). Issuing from opposite corners of the horizontal points of the star are two gold demi-serpents, their heads curving inwards to round the top of the rod at the apex of the star. A maroon scroll bearing the inscription "Care and Concern" in gold letters encircles the device, terminating at opposite sides of the horizontal points of the star.
Symbolism
Maroon and white are the colors used for Medical organizations. The star refers to Texas, where the organization and Darnall General Hospital are located. The heraldic water bouget was used by armies in the Middle Ages to carry water. It symbolizes the historical significance of Carl Rogers Darnall's contribution to medical science - the value of liquid chlorine in the purification of water. The light green area represents chlorine; the blue wavy bands are symbolic of water; the two together represent the universal use of chlorinated water. The serpents refer to the healing arts and the triangular segment, simulating the Armored Force insignia, denotes the medical support rendered at the largest permanent Armored post in the United States.
page last modified on: 6/4/2014