WWII 10th Armored "Armored Tiger" Patch

[Allan H.]

Although I have found a couple of instances where these patches have been shown in the past, I thought it might be interesting to see another of the elusive "Armored tiger" proficiency patches.

 

The 10th Armored Division's first commander, Major General Paul Newgarden, wanted to have a division that demonstrated ferocity and and professionalism. One of Newgarden's first undertakings as commander was to hold a division-wide contest to give his division a fitting nickname. the winning entry of "The Tiger Division" was chosen because it symbolized a unit that would "claw and maul" its enemy. MG Newgarden liked the tiger as a mascot because the tiger was clean, neat and moved with stealth in order to surprise his prey.

 

While the unit was still training at Fort Benning, GA, Newgarden instituted a special award for the very best soldiers in his division. MG Newgarden directed that these top performers be rewarded with a special insignia to denote their outstanding performance in soldier related skills. The award was called the "Armored Tiger."

 

It was no easy task to earn the award. In order to do so, the soldier had to march five miles in one hour in full equipment and with his assigned weapon. He had to be able to pass a land navigation compass course in both daylight and at night. He had to be able to demonstrate his ability to scout and observe enemy actions which included being able to identify the size and type of unit, uniform recognition, and the ability to report the information back to higher headquarters in detail and in the proper reporting format. The soldier also had to be able to demonstrate his ability to camouflage and conceal himself, his assigned vehicle and his encampment. After doing this, the soldier had to be able to swim one half mile and be able to operate all of his unit's equipment. MG Newgarden also directed that the soldier be able to qualify with the M1 carbine, Thompson M1 submachine gun and the .30 and .50 caliber machine guns. Additionally, he was to qualify as an expert with at least one of those weapons. The soldier was also expected to be able to defend himself in un-armed combat and be able to disarm an attacker who was armed with a knife or a sword. Finally, the soldier had to be able to operate at night and demonstrate knowledge of stars and constellations, be able to read a map and to drive a vehicle at night. newgarden firmly believed that his division's ability to attack effectively at night would save lives.

 

the award consisted of a Certificate of Proficiency that was signed by the soldier's Battalion Commander and the General himself. Also included was a three-day pass and a fully emboidered oval patch which was to be worn on the chest of the class A uniform above any service ribbons or other qualification badges. I have been told that this patch was later moved to the wearer's left cuff, but I have never actually observed one sewn to a uniform, nor have I been able to find a vintage photo of the patch being worn.

 

Here is my example of the Armored Tiger patch. I hope that others with more information might be able to add to this thread.

Allan

[Allan H.]

Another collector sent me this copy of the certificate for the Armored Tiger. Note that it is signed by MG Newgarden.

[Jim Baker]

Allan,

 

I think you have it covered. Here is mine.

 

[mortaydc60]

That is a great patch and quite rare! Does anyone know anything about the larger tiger jacket patch? It is in the patch catalogues from ASMIC. I have what I believe are examples of the patch and was curious if some one else might have this patch? I have never seen another in 50 plus years of hunting. Would love to hear any information on subject. Thanks Mort

[bhmilitarycollector84]

wow great patch , i have never seen this one before thanx for sharing with us

[m60a1d66]

Finally, after years of looking I picked one up at the 2022 Show of Shows that was held in Kentucky.

[tredhed2]

It was actually a division "Ranger" school, available to the men of the 3rd Armored Regt (originally the 3rd Cavalry Regt) assigned to the 10th Armored Division. Very similar skills to those of the infantry divisions' Ranger schools, which also awarded certificates which included similar skills.  I have a drawing for a 7th Armored Division "Commando" insignia which I believe was awarded for completing their divisional course. Whether called a divisional Ranger, Raider, Commando, or Battle Patrol, the GIs had specialized infantry training. 

 

Both the 1st and 2nd ADs had Ranger companies (and insignia) during the KW era; there is a certificate for the 2nd AD. Only men from the AIBs were elegible for the training.   

 

For further info, please purchase the Keller Bros' book Emblems of Honor Rangers Scrolls, Patches and Tabs WW II & KW send PM for info