US Army 128th Military Intelligence Battalion Distinctive Unit Insignia

Description/Blazon A Gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall consisting of a shield blazoned: Azure (Oriental Blue), a demi-griffin grasping a key, the wards upward and outward forming a keystone Or; on a chief checky Argent and Sable, a sword and lightning flash saltirewise of the second. Attached below the shield a Black scroll doubled and inscribed "KEYSTONE TO VICTORY" in Gold.

Symbolism Oriental blue is the primary color traditionally associated with the Military Intelligence branch. The demi-griffin stands for courage, intelligence and vigilance and holds a key as the symbol of secrecy and security. The wards of the key form a keystone recalling the Battalion's motto, home state of Pennsylvania and the unit's Capstone mission to the 28th Infantry Division. The checky chief, recalling the insignia of the 99th United States Army Reserve Command, suggests strategy, while its colors, black and white, refer to night and day operations. The sword represents military preparedness; the lightning flash suggests speed and electronic capabilities. Gold stands for excellence.

Background The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 21 August 1991.