Existing comment:
Shoulder Patches:
The Army's first official should patch was worn by members of the 81st Division during World War I when its Commanding General, impressed by the French and British practice of wearing distinguished shoulder sleeve insignia, decided that the Division needed its own patch. The insignia eventually selected was designed by Sgt Dan Silverman, a self-taught artist from Asheville, NC, who incorporated the Division's nickname "Wildcat" into the patch. When the soldiers of the 81st started wearing the patch, other units complained but General John Pershing, AEF Commander, allowed the 81st the keep its insignia and suggested the other Divisions adopt their own. The 81st Division shoulder patch became official on 19 October 1918.
Dan Silverman, a native of Asheville, NC, designed the first shoulder sleeve insignia [and] as well contributed drawings and sketches to 81st Division publications. After the War, Silverman moved up to Richmond, VA where he made his career as a businessman and Entrepreneur, becoming a respected member of the community. |