Although the unit formed in 2008, the 71st Expeditionary Military Intelligence Brigade Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, or unit patch, was not approved until 29 July 2010, while the Brigade was still operating under its original designation as the 71st Battlefield Surveillance Brigade.
The insignia’s arrowhead design is intended to recall the unit’s past association with the 36th Infantry Division (it was formed through the redesignation of the 36th Infantry Division Artillery). An oriental blue field is used because it is the primary color of the Military Intelligence branch, while the griffin in the center of the insignia is the embodiment of alertness, steadfast vigilance, and courage—all qualities displayed in the unit motto, “On The Hunt.”
A mix of black and white is used for the attentive griffin’s eye, symbolizing the clandestine/overt nature of the Brigade’s mission. Lightning flashes are emblems of communication and electronic warfare, but also represent the speed of Cavalry, and taken together they stand for the agility, speed, and range of Battlefield Surveillance forces.
It is unclear when the unit received its current designation as the 71st Expeditionary Military Intelligence Brigade.
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