About this Unit
The 7th Psychological Operations Group (7th POG) was activated on October 16, 1975, and is headquartered at Moffett Field, California. As part of the U.S. Army's Psychological Operations forces, the 7th POG specializes in planning and executing information and influence operations to affect the perceptions and behaviors of foreign populations in support of U.S. objectives. The unit has deployed personnel in support of major operations including Operation Just Cause in Panama, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terrorism, with missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. The 7th POG continues to play a vital role in shaping the information environment and supporting strategic communication efforts worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 7th Psychological Operations Group traces its heritage to units formed during World War II, which used leaflet drops and loudspeakers to influence enemy troops and populations.
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Activated in 1965: The 7th PSYOP Group was officially constituted and activated on 19 August 1965, amid the Vietnam War, as part of the U.S. Army’s growing psychological operations capabilities.
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Vietnam Operations: The group played a significant role in Vietnam, supporting civil and military operations through radio broadcasts, leaflets, loudspeaker teams, and face-to-face communication.
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Relocation to California: In 1974, the 7th PSYOP Group relocated to the Presidio of San Francisco, and later, to Moffett Field and then to Fort Hunter Liggett, California.
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Support to Latin America: The unit has long focused on U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility, supporting operations and training throughout Central and South America.
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Operation Just Cause: During the 1989 invasion of Panama, the 7th PSYOP Group played a pivotal role, broadcasting messages to Panamanian forces and civilians, contributing to the surrender of many units.
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Reserve Component: Unlike some other PSYOP units, the 7th PSYOP Group is primarily composed of U.S. Army Reserve soldiers, bringing unique civilian skills to their missions.
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Distinctive Insignia: The group’s insignia features a sphinx, symbolizing wisdom, silence, and strength—qualities essential for psychological operations.
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Operations in the Global War on Terror: Since 2001, the 7th PSYOP Group has deployed soldiers to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations, supporting counterinsurgency and information operations.
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Motto and Mission: The group’s motto, "Support by Influence," reflects its mission to use information and persuasion as force multipliers in U.S. military operations.