131st Infantry Dandy First Co. M, Tie On Patch What is it?

[Carabinieri]

Would welcome some info. on this insignia, 5in. diameter. Said to be a baseball/sports patch from the WWI occupation period. But why the spokes around the one? Again any input welcome.

 

[vzemke]

I doubt this is WWI occupation made and sports team related. The printed on felt type construction doesn't seem like any other immediate post WWI made patches. Also, why would you wear a tie on arm band while playing baseball???? That doesn't seem like it would work out too well.

 

I think this is more likely a veterans reunion piece, made to be worn over civilian clothes when attending a Division Association, American Legion, or VFW event. It would make it easier to find people from your old unit in the crowd.

[patches]

131st Infantry, 33rd Division, Illinois National Guard, was the 1st Battalion of Infantry Illinois State Guard, later 1st Illinois, Illinois National Guard.

 

The spokes around the 1 comes from the old symbol of the 1st Illinois. Their unit crest came out in 1927. Some units did have incorporated symbols they used for years in the Militia/National Guard in to their new unit crest. Oh and they always been from The Windy City.

 

[Carabinieri]

Most helpful comments, many thanks!!