519th Military Intelligence Battalion Coat of Arms

Description/Blazon

Shield

Or, in base a sphinx facing to dexter couchant Azure, detailed of the first in front of an open book of the last, fimbriated of the second, its upper edge at fess point in front of a globe overall of the like, gridlined of the field.

Crest

On a wreath of the colors Or and Azure (Teal Blue) a garb of rice of the first in front of a triangle Gules conjoined at the tip with a tori-gate Sable.

Motto

STRENGTH THRU INTELLIGENCE.

Symbolism

Shield

Teal blue and golden yellow, the colors used for branch unassigned, were the former colors for Army Intelligence organizations. The sphinx, adapted from the Army Intelligence Reserve branch insignia, is used again to symbolize Army Intelligence. Resting against the terrestrial globe is an open book representing the knowledge made available through mastery of the languages of the world. The globe itself indicates the worldwide scope of the Battalion's research activities. Crest Red is the color for action, and the triangle simulating a Vietnamese sun hat, alludes to service in Vietnam. The tori-gate refers to Korea in which the elements of the organization participated with distinction and the five rice stalks represent the sum total of decorations awarded during both campaigns.

Background

The coat of arms was approved on 20 May 1960. It was amended to add a crest on 27 January 1976.