The 260th Military Intelligence Battalion was organized and Federally recognized on 27 August 1990 in the Florida Army National Guard with its headquarters at Miami, Florida. In 2008, the Battalion was awarded a Meritorious Unit Commendation for its outstanding support of Operation Iraqi Support between 15 August 2006 and 14 August 2007. As of Summer 2023, the Battalion is assigned to the 300th Military Intelligence Brigade and remains headquartered at Miami.
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The 260th Military Intelligence Battalion Distinctive Unit Insignia, also called a “unit crest” or a DUI, was originally approved on 28 December 1990 and was amended on 28 January 1991. Its shield is rendered predominantly in oriental blue and silver gray, colors long associated with Military Intelligence units.
In its center is a crossed quill pen and a dagger (styled after the famous Fairbairn–Sykes knife favored by units performing covert ops) placed atop a double-warded key. The key is an emblem associated with knowledge and authority; its double ward implies security. While the dagger denotes military preparedness and its design suggests covert ops, the placement of the pen on top is a statement that the “pen is mightier than the sword.”
Bookending the key, dagger, and pen are two Sphinx heads facing in different directions to denote constant vigilance. White text used for the motto, INTELLIGENTIA ET VERITAS (Latin for “Intelligence And Truth”), contrasts with the black of the scroll to suggest day and night operations, which in turn means the need for round-the-clock preparations.
The 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.