Shield
Argent, on a cross throughout Gules the peak of Mount Rainier of the first garnished Sanguine.
Crest
From a wreath Argent and Gules issuing from a branch of laurel fesswise Proper a demi-lion rampant Or armed and langued and gorged with a collar and pendent from the collar an escutcheon of the second, grasping a Rod of Aesculapius of the first.
Motto
PESHUTA-AKICHITA (Medicine Soldiers).
Shield
The red cross symbolizes the medical services performed by the battalion. The peak of Mount Rainier is in the colors of the Army Medical Service and give reference to the place of activation of the 56th Medical Battalion.
Crest
The lion is symbolic of strength and courage and commemorates the unit's service during World War II and Southwest Asia. Gold is emblematic of honor and high achievement. The red collar and attached shield honors the two Meritorious Unit Commendations earned in the European Theater during World War II and Southwest Asia; red is symbolic of valor and sacrifice. The Rod of Aesculapius highlights the organization's medical mission. White represents integrity; the laurel is for high achievement and accomplishment.
The coat of arms was originally approved for the 56th Medical Battalion on 2 Sep 1941. It was rescinded on 26 Jan 1958. On 16 Nov 1999, the coat of arms was reinstated and amended to add a crest.