The 205th Military Intelligence Battalion began its existence as the 2nd Signal Service Company, constituted and activated on 1 January 1939 at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. Redesignated the 2nd Signal Service Battalion on 14 April 1942, the unit earned a World War II Meritorious Unit Commendation embroidered ARLINGTON HALL, a reference to the location in Virginia where the Army carried out Signal Intelligence Service cryptography efforts. Its Headquarters were disbanded in April 1946, followed by the rest of the Battalion’s organic elements in May 1950. On 1 October 1991, the 2nd Signal Service Battalion was reconstituted as HQ, 205th Military Intelligence Battalion, and a year later was redesignated as Headquarters and Service Company, 205th Military Battalion and activated at Fort Shafter, Hawaii; it is headquartered there still.
The 205th Military Intelligence Battalion Distinctive Unit Insignia, approved on 6 January 1993, silver-gray quills on an oriental-blue background, bookending a torch upon which an upright sword has been superimposed. Quills symbolize the analytical capabilities of the Battalion, while the black torch handle represents covert activities. Flame from the torch is an emblem of guidance and leadership, while the upright sword connotes military preparedness. The motto “Pacific Vigilance” is a reference to the unit’s location in Hawaii.
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The Distinctive Unit Insignia s worn by all Soldiers (except General Officers) in units that have been authorized to be issued the device. It is worn centered on the shoulder loops of the Army Green Service Uniform (AGSU) and the blue Army Service Uniform (ASU, Enlisted only) with the base of the insignia toward the outside shoulder seam. DUIs are not worn on the Dress variations of either uniform, however.