National Yellow Bat Day
National Yellow Bat Day commemorates the activation of the 265th Army Security Agency Company (Airborne), a crucial intelligence branch of the United States Army that provided surveillance and intelligence support during the Vietnam War.
Quick Facts
- When is it: April 21 annually
- Tagged as: Military Commemoration Day
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalYellowBatDay
- When was founded: 2016
- Who founded it: Doug Bonnot, former member of 265th RRC
History of National Yellow Bat Day
The day honors the Army Security Agency (ASA), which served as the intelligence branch of the US Army. The name “Yellow Bat” comes from the unit’s official insignia – a black bat with outstretched wings on a yellow background, symbolizing secrecy and night operations. Their motto “Through the Night” reflected their covert operations nature.
Timeline
• 1945: Army Security Agency begins operations
• 1967: 265th Army Security Agency activated at Fort Campbell
• 1967: Unit deployed to Vietnam
• 1972: Unit deactivated
• 2016: First National Yellow Bat Day celebrated
Dates by Next Years
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April | 21 | Monday |
| 2026 | April | 21 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April | 21 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April | 21 | Saturday |
| 2029 | April | 21 | Sunday |
| 2030 | April | 21 | Monday |
How It’s Observed
People commemorate this day by reading military memoirs, watching Vietnam War documentaries, and sharing stories about the ASA’s contributions. Many organize gatherings to honor veterans and learn about military intelligence history.
Fun Facts About Yellow Bat Day
• The ASA’s Latin motto was “Semper Vigilis” (Always Vigilant)
• The unit participated in 13 Vietnam campaigns
• The bat symbol was chosen for its association with mystery and stealth
• ASA operations helped discover nuclear weapons in Cuba
• The unit’s services remained classified for decades
Quiz
- What year was the 265th ASA activated?
- What does the bat symbolize?
- Who declared National Yellow Bat Day?
(Answers: 1967, Secrecy and mystery, Doug Bonnot)
FAQs
Q: Why yellow bat?
A: The yellow background with black bat was the unit’s official insignia.
Q: What was the ASA’s main function?
A: Intelligence gathering and communication security.
Importance of Yellow Bat Day
The day preserves the legacy of the ASA’s crucial intelligence work during the Cold War and Vietnam War. It recognizes the contributions of professionally trained personnel who served in covert operations and helped maintain national security.
Related Days
• National Veterans Day
• Vietnam Veterans Day
• Armed Forces Day
• Military Appreciation Month
