A major command in the Alabama National Guard, the 142nd Battlefield Surveillance Brigade was activated in 2011 and headquartered at Decatur, Alabama. Tasked with Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations, the Brigade comprised a HQ and HQ Company, a Military Intelligence Battalion, a Signal Battalion and Company, a Cavalry Squadron, Network Support Company, and a Brigade Support Company. On 18 September 2016, the Brigade—which had held steadfast to its motto “Truth Through Vigilance” while carrying out its missions—held an inactivation ceremony at Fort Quarles-Flowers Armory.
Approved on 3 March 2011, the 142nd Battlefield Surveillance Brigade Should Sleeve Insignia, or unit patch, features an eight-sided polygon that recalls Helios, Greek god of the Sun with the power to see and hear all. A red saltire inside the polygon stands for the state flag of Alabama, the Brigade’s home state. Crossed swords atop the saltire imply offensive and defensive action and the danger involved with each. Some of the different types of branches represented by subordinate units include the oriental blue of the disc (Military Intelligence) and red and yellow (Cavalry).
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