Occupation Patches
Here you can find a list of different United States Army patches that were made for the occupation of Axis lands. For every occupation patch we have added pictures of the insignia (some with variations) and some background information. The patches seen here are made during the World War Two era. We hope you find this helpful!
US European Command
These patches were worn by us service men who were part of the occupational forces in Europe. In particular the European Command of the US army. These patches are often mistaken for the black SHAEF patches, however the blue version is for the post war occupation.
The insignia is a blue shield shape with a rainbow on top and a flaming sword in the middle.
US European Communication Zone
These patches were worn by us service men who were part of the occupational forces in Europe. In particular the Communications zone department of the US army.
The insignia is a shield shape with blue and red parts with a withe expanding arrow in the middle. On either sides of the arrow are Fleur-de-lis.
US Austrian Command
These patches were worn by us service men who were part of the occupational forces in Austria. In particular the Austrian headquarters of the US army.
The insignia is a shield shape with vertical red and white lines with in the middle a blue sword with an olive branch.
US Constabulary
The United States Constabulary was a US Army military police force that acted as a security force in occupied Germany and Austria. The force was active from 1946 until 1952.
The patch is a yellow circle with a blue border. In the middel is a blue C for constabulary crossed with a red lighting bolt.
Nickname: Circle C Cowboys, Circle C Cab Company, Blitzpolizei (Lightning police)
Motto: Mobility, Vigilance, Justice
United States Army, Japan
These patches were put into use in 1957 and were worn by US personnel serving in Japan. It consisted of approximately 2,000 soldiers responsible for operating port facilities and various logistics installations during peacetime.
The insignia is a circle with a red border and in the middle the well know Japanese Mount Fuji with a blue sky.
Motto: Omnia Fieri Potest
Ryukyus command
This emblem was worn by American soldiers who were part of the Ryukyus command. The division was in charge of the administration and organization of Japanese citizens after the Second World War. These patches were put into use in 1947.
The insignia is a black circle with a yellow border and in the middel a yellow Torii, a typical Japanese Gate found at shrines and temples.
