A silver color metal and enamel device 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in height consisting of three black arrows, the tips (points) of which are outlined in silver. One arrow is severely curved about the circumference, the second less severely curved, starting and ending at the outer limits and passing through the center, and the third straight and penetrating the other two.
The two curved arrows represent enemy propaganda, distorting the truth, aimed at friendly forces. The straight arrow represents truth and knowledge piercing enemy propaganda and omitting light (silver metal) while the enemy propaganda attempts to block and restrain the light. There is a secondary symbolism in that the three types of propaganda-black (emanating from other than purported source), gray (doubtful source), and white (emanating from purported source)-are represented by the degree of curvature of the arrows. The black and silver serve to gain attention by its contrast but is subtle in that conservative colors are used.
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 5th Psychological Operations Battalion on 31 January 1967. It was redesignated for the 5th Psychological Operations Group on 29 January 1976. The insignia was redesignated effective 16 October 2004, for the 5th Psychological Operations Battalion.