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This was the challenge given by General Shinseki (U.S. Army, Retired). The response Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT) and the Interim Armored Vehicle (IAV): The "Vanguard for Army Transformation". The Army’s responsibility to satisfy 21st century requirements for an effective full spectrum force demands improved capabilities. Rapid deployment of highly integrated, combined-arms forces is required. They must possess overmatching capabilities, exploiting the power of information and human potential, all while combining the advantages of both light and mechanized forces. They must operate across the full range of military and other-than-military operations. To meet all these requirements, the IAV becomes the first new armored vehicle that the Army has acquired in 18 years.
Mission: Provide Proven Superior Acquisition, Development, and Sustainment of the Stryker Family of Vehicles that afford the War Fighter Quick Response Maneuvering, Enhanced Survivability and Lethality, Expanded Fight Versatility, and Proven Tactical Agility.
Medal of Honor: The Army formally named its new Interim Armored Vehicle the "STRYKER™". The vehicle was named in honor of two Medal of Honor recipients: Pfc. Stuart S. Stryker, who served in World War II, and Spc. Robert F. Stryker, who served in Vietnam. Specialist Robert Stryker, who served with the 1st Infantry Division, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for saving the life of his fellow soldiers near Loc Ninh, Vietnam. Private First Class Stuart Stryker, who served with the 513th Parachute Infantry, posthumously received the Medal of Honor for leading an attack near Wesel, Germany that captured more than 200 enemy soldiers and freed three American pilots.
Additional information about the Medal of Honor can be found here:
Center of Military History MOH
Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Definition of Stryker Symbol: The circular background is symbolic of unity of purpose and the unbroken chain of loyalty, tradition, unity, service and dedication. It also alludes to the wheel and movement, and is emblematic of a shield for defense. Gold is the color of honor, and the "ring of stars" represents fidelity. Thirteen stars on the ring represent the original thirteen colonies of the United States of America and its united fight for freedom. They also recall the thirteen stars on the Congressional Medal of Honor. A sable background is representative of constancy and steadfastness, and is the traditional color of gunpowder. The eagle represents our national vigilance and strength. A flying eagle is keen of eye, waiting for prey and poised to strike. The flag, as our national symbol, wrapped around the eagle represents the nations resolve in defense of the country. The colors of the flag have two distinct meanings. Like our soldiers, the red represents their military strength and valor; white their purity and wisdom; and blue their strength and loyalty.
Blue and white are the traditional colors of infantry and red represents artillery. Together they represent the striking ability and firepower of the unit. The vehicle, like the sable and gold colors are symbolic of the transformation of the force. Named after two enlisted Congressional Medal of Honor recipients, one from World War II and one from Vietnam, this is indicative of the continuity of honor, courage, valor and tradition within the Army.
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