The 3,335 soldiers fighting the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria will now receive a unique patch to recognize their service. The patch will be made available to all soldiers participating in Operation Inherent Resolve, or the US bombing campaign against ISIS that started in August 2014.

“Unit insignia is important because it fosters esprit de corps,” the operation’s spokesman told USA Today. “The CJTF-OIR [Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve] headquarters is made up of men and women from all services, many nations and many different units in the Army. This insignia will be worn by all of the Army members of the CJTF and may be authorized for wear by other services and nations according to their regulations.”

ISISPatch

 

Here’s a breakdown of what each part of the patch symbolizes from Business Insider:

The patch features crossed scimitars, three stars, and a palm wreath. According to USA Today, the three stars denote the US land, air, and sea forces involved in the fight against ISIS.

The palm wreath is meant to symbolise honour, while the crossed swords evoke the twin goals of the ongoing operations: the defeat of ISIS and the restoration of stability in the region.

The patch is only available for members of the Army because soldiers can wear patches on both shoulders of their uniforms. Army uniforms also offer more Velcro so soldiers can customize and reposition their patches.