Semi-covert emergency transmitter

A semi-covert emergency transmission device and methodology for soldiers and other such personnel requiring pick-up or rescue is disclosed. The device has a flashlight mode and a transmit mode. In flashlight mode, an LED is turned on to provide an illumination source that can be used in numerous applications. In transmit mode, the device uses the same LED to transmit a coded message that includes information relevant to the user. The coded message can be preprogrammed and stored in the device, or translated in real-time. The transmit mode is further configured so as to confirm that the intended user is the one requesting the transmission of the coded message. The light emitted from the LED can be seen for up to a mile or so away by friendly forces or other potential rescuers.