An original Rhodesian Army formation insignia patch, issued during the height of the Rhodesian Bush War (1965–1980). These embroidered cloth patches were worn on the upper sleeve or shoulder epaulettes of combat fatigues and service dress to denote unit or formation affiliation within the Rhodesian Security Forces.Typically machine-embroidered in khaki, black, and green cotton thread on a matching brushstroke or olive-drab background, these patches featured distinctive unit symbols—ranging from brigade numbers, animal motifs, or stylised geometric insignia—representing combat formations such as 1 Brigade (Bulawayo), 2 Brigade (Salisbury), 3 Brigade (Umtali), and 4 Brigade (Gwelo).Formation insignia served both identification and esprit de corps purposes and were often removed prior to operations to maintain anonymity in the field. Surviving examples are rare due to the small size of the Rhodesian Army and the destruction or repurposing of uniforms following Zimbabwean independence in 1980.This example shows period wear and authentic stitch marks consistent with issue and use, typical of late-war manufacture during the U.D.I. (Unilateral Declaration of Independence) period when supply chains were restricted by sanctions.