SHOULDER SLEEVE INSIGNIA.  Description:  On a shield 2-1/2 inches in height overall, sable the head of a bald eagle proper.  A black and yellow airborne tab is attached above the insignia.

        Symbolism:  The design is based on one of the Civil War traditions of the State of Wisconsin, this State being the territory of the original 101st Division.  The eagle alludes to “Old Abe,” the famous war eagle carried into combat during the Civil War by the 8th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment.

        Background:  The insignia was originally approved for the 101st Division on 23 May 1923.  It was redesignated for the 101st Airborne Division on 28 August 1942, then redesignated for the 101st Air Cavalry Division on 5 August 1968, and on 10 September 1968 it was redesignated for the 101st Airborne Division.  It was amended to correct the symbolism on 8 February 2006.
 

DISTINCTIVE UNIT INSIGNIA. Description:  On and over a medium blue disc, a black demi-eagle with white head, wing details, eye and beak gold, in downward flight issuing from a white cloud in sinister base, all above a gold scroll bearing the motto "Rendezvous With Destiny" in black letters.

        Symbolism:  The design was suggested by the Division’s authorized shoulder sleeve insignia.  The black eagle alluding to “Old Abe,” an actual eagle carried into combat during the Civil War by one of the regiments from the State of Wisconsin, the territory of the original 101st Division.  The eagle issuing in downward flight from the cloud refers to the airborne classification of the Division.  The motto, “Rendezvous With Destiny” has been the motto of the Division since its founding.

        Background:  The insignia was originally approved for the Command and Control Battalion, 101st Airborne Division on 21 April 1958.  It was redesignated for the noncolor bearing units of the 101st Airborne Division on 24 July 1968, then redesignated for the 101st Air Cavalry Division on 5 August 1968, and on 10 September 1968 redesignated for the 101st Airborne Division.  It was amended to correct the symbolism on 8 February 2006.