Why was the Quatrefoil originated?

The Quatrefoil originated as a distinguishing insignia that allowed sharpshooters, particularly in the Marine Corps, to identify their officers during battle. This design, which resembles a four-leafed clover, was worn on the covers of officers' uniforms, especially during the 18th and 19th centuries. Its primary purpose was to provide a visual marker in the chaos of combat, helping marksmen to recognize friendly leadership at a distance and avoid friendly fire. This feature became a strong tradition within the Marine Corps, symbolizing both heritage and the critical importance of communication and recognition in warfare.

While marking vehicles, signifying rank, or purely decorative purposes could have their own relevance, they do not capture the historical and tactical significance of the Quatrefoil as a means to differentiate officers from enemy combatants in operational scenarios.