The Virginia State Police uniform shoulder patch was designed by a member of the Department in 1949, adopted in 1950 and used continuously since that time.  It is used on the sleeves of all uniform shirts, blouses and winter jackets.

The patch design consists of the obverse of the Great Seal of Virginia.  The Latin words "Sic Semper Tyrannis" mean Thus Ever to Tyrants and has been the motto of Virginia since 1776, twelve years prior to the Commonwealth's ratification as the tenth State in 1788.  This seal also is included in the design of the State flag, adopted in 1930.

The central figure of the Great Seal depicts the Roman goddess Virtus dressed as an Amazon.  The Amazons were a mythical race of warrior women who fought against men and who inhabited Southern Europe.  She personifies induring patience in trials, constancy under stress, resolution, unfailing exertion, and dedication to the Commonwealth of Virginia. By attitude, Virtus is at peace and intends to stay at peace.  Although warfare may be over, she is prepared to stamp out any tyrant or form of tyranny.

The spear is held point down to indicate she is temporarily through with using it.  Her helmet is pushed back to clear the face.  In her left hand is a sheathed parazonium, a short Greek sword which is considered more a badge of honor than a weapon

With head proudly erect and face upright, Virtus rests her foot on the prostrate male figure who personifies tyranny.  The crown which has fallen from his head originally symbolized freedom from Britain and the oppression of the Crown, the sundered chains freedom from Britain's restrictions, and the scourge under the figure's left hand freedom from Britain's punitive measures such as the Intolerable Acts which were instrumental in provoking the Revolution.

Thus, Virginia personified stands as the victor over oppression, dedicated to service with firm patience and ever willing to fight tyranny should it become necessary.