US Army 138th Military Intelligence Battalion Distinctive Unit Insignia

Description/Blazon A Silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall consisting of a shield blazoned: Per saltire Sable and Azure on a saltire Argent a key and lightning flash saltirewise of the second. Attached below the shield a Silver scroll inscribed "FORTIOR EX VIGILIS" in Black letters.

Symbolism Oriental blue is one of the colors for the Army Security Agency. The color black represents secrecy and constancy. The saltire alludes to the joint functions of intelligence and security. The blue key is for guardianship and the lightning flash for electronic communications. The motto translates to "Stronger After Vigilance."

Background The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 314th Army Security Agency Battalion on 20 August 1963. It was amended to correct the wording in the description on 8 November 1963. The insignia was redesignated for the 138th Military Intelligence Battalion on 21 July 1983.