United States Army Europe SSI

The shoulder sleeve insignia of the United States Army Europe is perhaps one of the most enduring heraldic items to emerge from the final months of World War II. Originally approved in 1944 for the Supreme Headquarters, Allied Expeditionary Forces (and sporting a black background), the SSI was re-designated with a blue background in August 1945 for U.S. Forces, European Theater. In 1947 the insignia was re-designated for the European Command and then, on 7 November 1952, assigned to United States Army Europe - to which it has remained attached ever since.

The SSI seen on soldiers in Germany
after WWII
(Photo: Stars and Stripes)

Headquartered at the Lucius D. Clay Kaserne (until 2012 known as Weisbaden Army Airfield) near Weisbaden, Germany, United States Army Europe oversees three joint and multinational commands as well as several brigade and regimental level combat and support units. Having been born in combat, the command has adapted to varying mission requirements on the continent throughout the Cold War including humanitarian and peacekeeping. Currently, United States Army Europe forces are committed to battling terror in Afghanistan, Iraq, and elsewhere.

The cute edge construction of this patch, as well as the nice amount of snow present on the reverse, indicates that it dates from some point between the post-World War II period and the mid-1960's. With the longevity of this SSI resulting in these patches being somewhat common, the $4.00 (including shipping) that I paid for this one on eBay is a reasonable expense.