About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 37th Armored Regiment, known as "Bandits," traces its lineage back to the formation of the 37th Armor Regiment in 1941. The unit first saw combat in World War II, participating in campaigns in North Africa and Europe, including the Rhineland and Central Europe. During the Cold War, the battalion was stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. Army's commitment to NATO, and later took part in Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. Renowned for its combat effectiveness and esprit de corps, 1-37 Armor remains a key armored battalion within the U.S. Army, exemplifying the motto "Courage Conquers."
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment traces its lineage back to the 37th Armor, which was constituted in 1941 and first activated at Fort Knox, Kentucky, as the U.S. prepared for World War II.
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Operation Torch: The regiment participated in Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of North Africa in 1942, landing in Morocco as part of the 2nd Armored Division.
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Nickname "Bandits": 1-37 Armor is nicknamed the "Bandits." This nickname reflects their aggressive combat posture and esprit de corps.
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Combat in Iraq: The battalion played a key role during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, famously leading the charge as the “tip of the spear” for the 3rd Infantry Division during the Thunder Run into Baghdad.
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Presidential Unit Citation: For its actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom, particularly the Thunder Run, 1-37 Armor was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, one of the highest unit awards.
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Medal of Honor Recipient: Staff Sergeant Lafayette G. Pool, a tank commander in the 3rd Battalion, 37th Armor during WWII, became one of the most successful tank aces, credited with destroying over 250 enemy vehicles.
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Reflagging and Assignments: The battalion has been assigned to various divisions, including the 2nd Armored Division and the 1st Armored Division, reflecting the Army’s shifting organizational needs.
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Desert Storm Participation: 1-37 Armor was deployed as part of Operation Desert Storm in 1991, taking part in the ground offensive to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit’s insignia features a green shield with a silver tank tread and a fleur-de-lis, symbolizing its armored heritage and service in France during WWII.
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Continued Legacy: Today, 1-37 Armor continues to serve as a vital armored battalion, training and deploying in support of U.S. military operations worldwide, maintaining its reputation for excellence and combat effectiveness.
