312th Military Intelligence Battalion
Distinctive Unit Insignia and Coat of Arms
Description
A Silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall consisting of a shield blazoned: Argent, on a Taeguk Proper an enflamed torch palewise in front of two lightning flashes saltirewise of the first, on a chief wavy Azure (Oriental Blue) a chess knight Argent. Attached below the shield a Light Blue scroll inscribed “SEMPER VERITAS” in Silver letters.
Symbolism
Oriental blue and silver (white) are the colors traditionally associated with Military Intelligence. The wavy alludes to past campaign participation in the Pacific during World War II, the Taeguk to service in Korea. The crossed flashes refer to the unit’s origin as Signal and their present Combat Electronic Warfare and Intelligence function. The torch is a symbol of truth and reflects the motto “SEMPER VERITAS” and the mission of the unit. The chess knight, a piece that can move covertly, further symbolizes the military intelligence mission.
Background
The distinctive unit insignia was approved on 1 March 1982.
Coat of Arms
Blazon
Shield: Argent, on a Taeguk Proper an enflamed torch palewise in front of two lightning flashes saltirewise of the first, on a chief wavy Azure (Oriental Blue) a chess knight Argent.
Crest: None.
Motto: SEMPER VERITAS (Always the Truth).
Symbolism
Shield: Oriental blue and silver (white) are the colors traditionally associated with Military Intelligence. The wavy alludes to past campaign participation in the Pacific during World War II, the Taeguk to service in Korea. The crossed flashes refer to the unit’s origin as Signal and their present Combat Electronic Warfare and Intelligence function. The torch is a symbol of truth and reflects the motto “SEMPER VERITAS” and the mission of the unit. The chess knight, a piece that can move covertly, further symbolizes the military intelligence mission.
Crest: None.
Background: The coat of arms was approved 1 March 1982.