383rd Military Intelligence Battalion Coat of Arms

Description/Blazon

Shield

Argent, a griffin rampant Gules grasping in dexter claws a sword Proper; an orle gemel Azure (Oriental Blue).

Crest

That for the regiments and separate battalions of the Army Reserve: From a wreath Argent and Gules, the Lexington Minute Man Proper. The statue of the Minute Man, Captain John Parker (H.H. Kitson, sculptor), stands on the common in Lexington, Massachusetts.

Motto

SPEAK AND BE HEARD.

Symbolism

Shield

Oriental Blue and silver gray are the colors traditionally used by Military Intelligence. The griffin, celebrated in heraldry for courage and resourcefulness, symbolizes the expertise and capability of the 383d Military Intelligence Battalion. It is grasping a sword denoting readiness and the will to engage an adversary. The double orle reflects the motto's reference to being heard, suggesting waves of transmitted sound in communication and conveyance of information. It suggests also the duplicity concomitant with carrying out the intelligence mission. White indicates integrity, scarlet denotes sacrifice and courage; together with blue they represent the United States.

Crest

The crest is that of the U. S. Army Reserve.

Background

The coat of arms was approved on 10 Sep 1997.