US Army 533rd 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 fess Argent and Azure two lightning flashes saltirewise counterchanged, in chief two eagles' heads conjoined erased Sable and overall in pale a double warded key, wards to base of the first. Attached below and to the sides of the shield a Silver scroll inscribed "VIGILANCE WITH PRIDE" in Black letters.

Symbolism Oriental blue and silver are the colors traditionally associated with Military Intelligence. The crossed lightning flashes connote the Battalion's mission as a combat Electronic Warfare Intelligence Unit. The key is a symbol of knowledge and security. The double-headed eagle symbolizes watchfulness and vigilance and alludes to the unit's areas of service, Austria and Germany.

Background The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 6 October 1981.