New squadron patch approved

  • Published
  • By Maj. Shannon Mann
  • 916th Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  You see them all over Seymour Johnson in their noticeably red hats. They are a proud bunch. And now that pride will reflect in an official squadron patch and emblem, which was just approved on Sept. 9th. 

The significance of the patch can be found in the official documents authorizing the emblem. Members chose to use the Air Force colors of ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow, "Blue alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations." 

"The horse symbolizes an aggressive and powerful force. The horse is noble and confident, representative of the unit's honorable character in the pursuit of warlike deeds in addition to symbolizing the unit's courage, valor and passion to take on any mission. The horse's mane symbolizes the unit's mighty determination to accomplish the mission." 

Reservists also chose to include some other symbols as well. "The globe as depicted is representative of day and night symbolizing any time, any place - a commitment of the courage and fortitude of the 567th Red Horse Squadron. The lightning bolt represents a force to be reckoned with, swift and mighty in action. 

Finally a motto is significantly displayed across the emblem. "The motto "SEMPER DUCIMUS" translates to "ALWAYS LEAD" aptly identifies the unit's desire and ability to do so." 

Members of the newly formed Reserve squadron helped create the design.
"It was designed as a joint effort with Tech. Sgt. Shane Evenden, who has
experience in graphic arts," said Col. Tim Lamb, 567th RHS commander. "He came up with some of the initial ideas and we gradually worked our way through to the final. He made all the modifications based on comments from me and others in the squadron."

The process can be daunting, taking nearly a year to design, modify and receive appropriate Air Force level approval. The final step is having the patch created by a certified patch manufacturer. Red Horse members are hopeful that they'll be dawning their new patch soon and once again, displaying another symbol of their pride and commitment on-base and around the community.