heraldry

Since the establishment of the battalion in 1953 and reactivation in 2014, the battalion has had five insignia under which its Marines and Sailors have served.

The shield's center is Navy blue, representing the battalion's maritime purpose and the central character of the littoral operating area in which it will operate.  

Red throughout the insignia represents the courage by which Marines and Sailors - past, present, and future - have and will serve.  The red circle, modeled after the Japanese national flag, also depicts the battalion's home station and the US-Japanese alliance and - set surrounded by the blue background - symbolizes how the Marine Littoral Regiment and the battalion will be in an island fight.

The white Shisa - a mythical Okinawan symbol - represents the unit's home station and honors the Okinawan people and culture who graciously host us.  The "growling" Shisa wards away evil spirits and shows how the unit will defend the United States' allies and partners from aggression.  White represents the integrity in which the battalion's Marines and Sailors will always conduct themselves.

Gold throughout the insignia symbolizes the high standards and commitment to excellence that the battalion's personnel have maintained and achieved throughout its storied history.

Lastly, in the top left corner of the inner shield, is the CALTRAP, which represents 3d Marine Division and under whose command the battalion forged the majority of its legacy and under whom it now currently serves.

Previous insignia

Last updated: March 2025