Summary

• A gold color metal and enamel device 1 3/16 inches in height overall consisting of an oval its upper half blue and containing a gold star in center, the lower half divided into seven stripes alternately white and red. Bordering the bottom of the oval, a semicircular gold scroll inscribed with the words "HAEC PROTEGIMUS" in black, the scroll ends folded twice and forked with the points up below a border of gold oak leaves terminating at either side of a gold acorn with point up at top center, crossed in front two swords their gold hilts emerging from the folds of the scroll and their white blades terminating outside the oak leaf border.

Symbolism:

• The background of the National colors refers to the seat of the government, which lies within the Military District of Washington, with the dome shaped upper part suggesting the Capitol building.

• The Command's responsibilities of conducting ceremonies for the President of the United States and foreign dignitaries, Medal of Honor presentations, military funerals and guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are represented by the gold star. The oak leaves symbolize strength and courage and the crossed swords indicate the command's mission to defend the Nation's Capital. The motto translates to "This We Guard."

Background:

• The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for Headquarters, Military District of Washington on September 6, 1968; revised to delete Headquarters from the designation on 28 October 28]], 1968; and redesignated for US Army Military District of Washington on July 21, 1971.