Embroidered patches are common in the military, mostly found on the shoulders and sleeves of military personnel clothing. Custom embroidery patches history in warfare spans decades of years ago to the great ancient China and Egypt. Their importance in the military ranges from identity markers, identifying different units, divisions, and ranks to symbols of camaraderie and honor among soldiers.
However, what we know today as military embroidered patches results from decades of evolution and customization. Currently, military personnel wear custom embroidery patches designed to fit individual divisions. But how did embroidered patches find their way into the military? Let’s walk down history lane to better understand and appreciate these embroidered patches in war.
The History of Military Patches
Embroidered patches are believed to have originated centuries ago in ancient China, India, and South America. The art began as a way of mending patches on torn clothes. However, it developed into an intricate process of decorating fabrics as a status symbol and todote rank.
Through the ages, embroidered patches have been used for various purposes, from depicting an individual’s status to being used as a fashion element. However, embroidered patches have always played a significant role in the military from ancient Egypt to the modern world.
The Origin of Military Patches
It’s unclear when embroidered patches were first used in war. However, some of the earliest use of military patches dates back to 3200 BC in ancient Egypt. The patches involved simple designs like the Eye of Horus patched on the soldier’s sleeves or hats.
However, the earliest recorded use of military patches dates back to the Roman Empire in the 2nd century BC. The Roman Empire used embroidered patches for identity, showing the soldier’s division/unit and rank. The patches were of different shapes, ranging from squares, rectangles, circles, ovals, and triangles, and were used during their campaigns in Europe.
Use Before the World Wars
Before the World Wars, embroidered patches were a valued addition to military uniforms as they created a sense of identity and belonging among the soldiers. They were not only decorative elements but also practical tools that helped identify which unit or regiment a soldier belonged to. This was crucial for maintaining organization and command within the ranks. The embroidered patches also indicated the soldier’s rank, making it easier for everyone to understand the chain of command and ensure the military operations ran smoothly during the Civil War.
Beyond their functional aspects, embroidered patches also held deep symbolic meaning. They featured emblems representing the heritage and spirit of the unit. They were also used to recognize achievements, acts of valor, or the completion of training programs.
The patches were hand-sewn onto their soldier’s shirts or hats by their loved ones (mothers, siblings, or wives). This meant that each patch looked different, with an estimate of over one hundred different military patches per division.
The World War I
After the Civil War, the Industrial Revolution led to the invention of the sewing and embroidery machine, revolutionizing the production of embroidered patches. This ensured that military patches were produced on a large scale and were identical. When World War I began in 1914, powered embroidery machines were already common.
The US joined the war in 1917, and the 81st Infantry Division designed the first US army’s military patch. The patch featured a circular shape with a wildcat embroidered on it, symbolizing Wildcat Creek, which was next to Fort Jackson, the army’s training camp. The patch background and wildcat color differed depending on the soldier’s rank.
As the war progressed and more US troops joined, the first army was formed, and General John Pershing, the commander, introduced the first well-known US Army military patch. The Military patch was an A on a red and white background. Soon, military patches became a norm in the US Army.
The World War II
During World War II, military patches evolved and became bolder and brighter, featuring colors like bright red, green, and blue. The patches played a key role in identifying soldiers’ divisions, roles, and achievements. For example, military medics would wear an embroidered patch with a bright red cross, and high-ranking officers would wear multiple patches on their uniforms to show their achievements.
World War II military patches were so popular that they became collectibles. However, the bright colors on the patches were finally replaced by subtle colors to blend easily with soldiers’ uniforms for better camouflage.
Modern Day
Military patches are a tradition for all armies around the world, especially the US Army, which is distinguished by its patches which denotes identity, rank, unit/division, skill, and special achievements. They also symbolize camaraderie, loyalty, and pride among soldiers.
Different armies globally create custom embroidery patches for their soldiers, which are customized depending on the mission and can be easily placed and removed from clothing. In addition, government organizations like NASA, have also adopted the use of patches to identify different team missions.
Military Patches as Collectibles
As aforementioned, military patches became popular as collectibles during World War II. What most people don’t know is that Walt Disney Studios designed the military patches for World War II. The studio created 1200 insignias featuring iconic Disney characters and infantry-inspired designs.
Although this may seem peculiar, Walt Disney and Roy, his brother, served in the US military. The designs were so popular that people who love military history still collect the patches today.
The Influence of Military-Style Embroidered Patches in Civilian Fashion
Military-style embroidered patches entered mainstream fashion majorly after World War II and became part of contemporary fashion. In the 1970s and 1980s, civilians embedded embroidered patches onto their jackets and jeans as a symbol of allegiance and loyalty to their favorite bands and as a showcase of their political beliefs. The patches also serve as a symbol of individuality and identity.
Today, military-style embroidered patches are still part of civilian fashion, with top designers incorporating them into their collections. This is due to the ability to create custom embroidered patches.
Why You Need Custom Embroidery Patches
The history of embroidered patches in war traces its roots centuries ago. However, the influence of military patches is still felt in today’s armies. In addition, military patches also infiltrated civilian fashion, with individuals able to create custom embroidered patches to incorporate into their wear. Custom embroidered patches ensure you remain stylish while conveying the desired message. Look no further than THE/STUDIO if you’re looking to create exclusive and unique custom embroidery patches that represent your brand.
