In modern Ukraine, interest in military symbols has increased significantly, and the most recognizable element of uniforms is considered to be the chevron. Such emblems are used today not only in the army, but also in civilian life, where they are of great importance for creating a corporate style. High-quality patches are also extremely relevant for the defenders of Ukraine, volunteers and patriotic citizens. The production of chevrons is constantly developing, and knowledge of the features of these components makes it possible to make the right choice to achieve a specific task.
What are chevrons?
So, what is a chevron? A chevron is a patch on a uniform that has a decorative and informational nature. Its main purpose is to indicate belonging to a military unit or military rank, length of service, etc. Quite often, a chevron is a kind of means of identifying a person in terms of "friend or foe." Such products are made of special materials in various shapes and provide for the designation of certain mandatory elements.
The history of such patches is quite long. It began in the 19th century, and until then, the belonging of soldiers to a certain army, regiment or brigade was determined only by the color of the uniform. In this case, it is often necessary to use bright shades. However, this format was eventually abandoned, since noticeable colors could provoke the death of a soldier. And therefore, the uniform began to be sewn from wear-resistant fabric in khaki. Later, it began to be supplemented with special patches. According to the standard at that time, 4 colors and no more than 4 signs were required for identification. This made it possible to see the patch with the naked eye and easily determine which branch of the army the employee belongs to.
What are the meanings of chevrons?
Quite often, sleeve insignia and chevrons are confused, considering these products to be the same. However, they have different concepts and purposes. The main difference between these elements is that patches are used only on civilian clothing, while chevrons are worn on military uniforms. In addition, the patch can be made in a free form, theme, color scheme.
Radical changes in the work on chevrons began in 2014 after Russia's military aggression against Ukraine. Until then, chevrons were the same in both the Ukrainian and Russian armies, and therefore there was an urgent need to create our own distinctive signs. A clear methodology, according to which this work was carried out, emerged only in 2018, providing for the following rules:
a ban on the use of any religious symbols, including the faces of saints;
a ban on combining weapons and equipment from different eras - for example, a saber and a copter;
a ban on the use of portraits of military, historical, and cultural figures - even if they are directly related to the military structure;
It is not advisable to use exact labels.
For field use, chevrons are recommended in various shades of khaki. For other occasions, full-color emblems can be purchased and used.
Patches can also be distinguished separately. These are special patches with the use of interesting inscriptions and drawings, thanks to which you can stand out. Many people choose patches to determine their profession, hobby, city of residence, family status. Patches can only be used in field conditions, they are prohibited in headquarters, military units.
Varieties of chevrons
From a classification point of view, the following options are distinguished:
Military chevrons - their meaning is to identify the rank of a unit, branch of service, or mission. They may have coats of arms, emblems, and other symbols that relate to a specific unit.
Official and police. Allows you to identify law enforcement officers, has elements of the names of the service department, etc.
Sports - needed to identify players, indicating affiliation with a particular club or association.
Corporate ones are also separately marked to create a uniform style for employees, and chevrons to identify hobbies or belonging to a subculture.
In terms of shape, chevrons should be distinguished in the form of a parachute shield, a triangle or a circle. In terms of color, they can be monochromatic or multi-colored. If we consider chevrons by manufacturing methods, they are divided into embroidered and sublimated.
It is also worth noting the material of manufacture. The most popular is textile, thanks to which the chevron will be light, flexible and practical. Plastic can also be used as a material, which provides rigidity and a bright design. As a premium option, metal chevrons can be made. In any case, the main requirements for the materials used are high quality, resistance to wear and weather conditions - so that the chevrons are durable.
Types of chevrons in terms of fixation
Attaching a chevron to clothing can be in different formats, namely:
- Velcro is the most popular option at the moment, as it is extremely practical, provides quick removal and dressing without deforming the clothing. Ideal for cases where you need to change emblems frequently.
- Sew-on - attached to clothing with a needle and thread. They are durable and resistant, guaranteeing a strong fixation, which is very important in conditions of active use.
- Adhesive - have a special adhesive base, with which the chevron is attached without sewing. Most often they are intended for temporary use.
- Magnetic is an innovative type of fastening that is suitable for clothing that is not intended to be sewn or glued.
The main military chevrons differ in shape and color, which facilitates visual perception. For example, the chevrons of brigades, battalions, companies and departments may differ in color scheme, composition, emblem and even style. For the Armed Forces of Ukraine, products depicting the coat of arms of Ukraine, a trident, a sword, a shield or wings are most often characteristic. In each such case, a separate element symbolizes certain qualities and traditions of the military formation.
