The 156th Information Battalion is a unit in the Wash-ington Army National Guard assigned to the 56th Theater Information Operations Group (TIOG); it is also referred to as the 56th Theater Information Operations Battalion.. While under state control, the Battalion provides a regional response Task Force to its parent organization in accordance with Joint Force HQ requirements, provides support to cyber mission requirements of its state, and supplements the 56th TIOG for Joint Task Force support. When called into Federal service, the Battalion provides Information Operations units that are deployable, regionally focused, and culturally aware to deliver direct support of Army units from echelons ranging from Brigade Combat Teams to Army Service Component Commands to carry out tactical and strategic-theater Information Operation missions.
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Also known as a unit crest or DUI, a Distinctive Unit Insignia is 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.
Approved on 4 September 2008 , the 156th Information Operations Battalion Distinctive Unit Insignia features a shield of teal blue, the color used for units not assigned to an established branch of the Army (branch immaterial). A dagger in the center recalls Special Operations, the branch from which the unit evolved; it denotes purpose and strength in the Information environment. The winged foot represents Mercury, messenger of the Gods in mythology, and the lightning flash with which it is charged signifies the Battalion’s mission of protecting and defending information. Gold is used throughout the insignia to denote excellence, and the black lettering of the motto “Protecting Mercury” indicates determination and strength of purpose.