Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Description/Blazon
A shield blazoned: Argent, a pairle Azure between, in chief, an oak tree Proper within a circle of five mullets Gules, and in base, a palm tree to dexter and a prickly pear cactus to sinister, both of the third. Above the shield, on a wreath Or and upon a grassy field, is the blockhouse of old Fort Dearborn Proper. Below and to the sides of the shield is a gold scroll inscribed "SEMPER PARATUS" in gold.
Symbolism
The white shield with the blue pairle is adapted from the city of Chicago’s coat of arms, and the white and blue colors reflect Infantry traditions. The green oak tree represents Forges Wood, while the five red mullets symbolize the Regiment’s major operations in France. The palm tree signifies Cuban service, and the cactus denotes Mexican border service. The crest of the Illinois Army National Guard adorns the top. The motto translates to "Ever Ready."
Background
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on March 13, 1925. It was amended to change the motto to Latin on October 16, 1926, and was rescinded on October 20, 1961.
