About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), commonly referred to as 1/10 SFG(A), was activated in 1952, making it one of the original Special Forces units in the U.S. Army. Initially stationed in Bad Tölz, Germany, the battalion played a key role in unconventional warfare and counterinsurgency operations during the Cold War, focusing on missions behind the Iron Curtain. Over the decades, 1/10 SFG(A) has participated in numerous operations, including humanitarian missions in Africa and combat operations in the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Now headquartered at Panzer Kaserne near Stuttgart, Germany, 1/10 SFG(A) continues to support U.S. and NATO objectives across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Cold War: The 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), or 1/10 SFG(A), was activated in 1952 as one of the first Special Forces units, formed to conduct unconventional warfare behind enemy lines in Europe in case of a Soviet invasion.
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World War II Heritage: Many of the original members were veterans of the OSS (Office of Strategic Services) and Jedburgh teams from World War II, bringing unique experience in guerrilla warfare and resistance operations.
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First European Stationing: In 1953, 1/10 SFG(A) was the first U.S. Special Forces unit to deploy to Europe, establishing its headquarters at Bad Tölz, West Germany—a strategic location during the Cold War.
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Green Beret Symbolism: The 10th SFG played a significant role in the adoption of the Green Beret as the symbol of U.S. Army Special Forces, with President Kennedy later endorsing the distinctive headgear.
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Support to Resistance Movements: 1/10 SFG(A) trained and established stay-behind networks among NATO allies, particularly in Scandinavia and Western Europe, to prepare for possible occupation scenarios.
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Operation Desert Storm: The 1/10 SFG(A) was among the first Special Forces units deployed to the Middle East during the Gulf War, conducting reconnaissance, sabotage, and coalition support operations.
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Balkans Peacekeeping: During the 1990s, 1/10 SFG(A) played a key role in peacekeeping and stability operations in Bosnia, Kosovo, and other parts of the Balkans, often training local forces and conducting special missions.
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Post-9/11 Deployments: After 2001, 1/10 SFG(A) was heavily involved in Afghanistan and Iraq, specializing in unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and counterinsurgency.
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Modern Garrison: The unit is now primarily based at Panzer Kaserne in Böblingen, Germany, maintaining a forward presence for U.S. and NATO interests in Europe and Africa.
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Legacy of Valor: 1/10 SFG(A) has produced numerous decorated soldiers, including recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, and other high honors, reflecting its continued commitment to excellence and sacrifice.
