US Vietnam Era 116th Air Cavalry Patch
Condition:Grade 1
Good used condition. Fully functional and field-ready, with light wear and typical service markings.
KEY FEATURES
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This original US Vietnam Era 116th Air Cavalry Patch is a genuine period military uniform badge.
Unit History
This patch represents the 116th Air Cavalry unit deployed during the Vietnam War. Derived from the 116th Armoured Cavalry Regiment, the unit provided essential aerial reconnaissance and troop transport. The yellow shield signifies traditional US Cavalry heritage, while the blue snake represents the Snake River valley from the unit's original home region in Idaho.
Period Construction
Made during the 1960s, this badge uses a yellow twill fabric base with multi-coloured cotton thread embroidery. The front shows two crossed sabres, black aviator wings, blue unit numbers, and a blue snake outline. On the reverse, the open cheesecloth mesh backing shows the unmasked thread construction typical of mid-century US military insignia.
Specifications and Practical Use
Measuring 7.5cm wide by 8cm high, this compact pocket-sized badge is shaped as a classic military shield. It can be sewn directly onto vintage field uniforms, jackets, or display boards. The tight merrowed edge binding prevents edge fraying, making it an ideal piece for historical reenactors and militaria collection displays.
Add this original Vietnam War 116th Air Cavalry badge to your military insignia collection today.
This item was used by the US Army during the Late Cold War (1961–1991) and is in Grade 1 condition. It is in very good condition with plenty of life left. We recommend giving it a wash before wearing.
Grade 1 represents solid, fully functional military surplus that has been deployed or issued but remains in great usable condition with plenty of life left.
- Functionality: 100% field-ready. All main zippers, press studs, drawstrings, and buckles work as intended with no critical faults.
- Fabric & Wear: Structurally sound with light cosmetic wear, minor abrasion, or subtle fading from normal military use and laundering.
- Markings & Personalisation: May feature soldier names, unit numbers, service markings, or light depot stamps written on tags or fabric.
- Repairs: May include neat, professional military-standard stitches or minor reinforcement patches that do not compromise gear integrity.
- Storage & Cleanliness: Gear is serviceable straight out of the box, though a standard initial wash or airing is recommended to clear typical military surplus storage scent and minor handling dust.
| Product Code | SKU3613B |
| Department | Accessories |
| Condition/Grade | Grade 1 |
| Era | Late Cold War (1961–1991) |
| Issuing Country | US |
| Service | Army |
| Unit Designation | 116th Air Cavalry / 116th Aviation Company |
| Conflict Era | Vietnam War (1961–1975) |
| Construction Materials | Embroidered twill with cheesecloth mesh backing |
| Insignia Type | Shoulder / Pocket Unit Patch |
| Key Features | Lightweight |
| Activities | Historical Reenactment, Everyday Casual |
Same-Day Dispatch: Orders placed before 1:00 PM (Monday–Friday) dispatch the same day from our Aberystwyth warehouse with full online tracking.
UK Delivery: Free standard UK delivery on orders over £50. Royal Mail Tracked 24, Tracked 48, and Next Day courier options available.
EU & USA Tax Pre-Paid: We collect import duties, tariffs, and taxes automatically at checkout for EU and US orders—ensuring smooth customs clearance with zero surprise fees on delivery.
Worldwide Shipping: We ship overseas daily via Tracked Airmail and DHL Express (delivering in ~2 days to the US and 2–5 days to Europe).
60-Day Hassle-Free Returns: Take your time to inspect your gear. Return any item in its original condition within 60 days of delivery.
Free UK Sizing Exchanges: Need a different size? We will exchange it free of charge for UK customers.
Prompt Refunds: Returns are inspected and processed within 5 working days of reaching our Aberystwyth warehouse depot.
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