About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 13th Armor Regiment (1-13 AR) is a distinguished unit within the U.S. Army's 1st Armored Division. Originally constituted in 1942, the regiment has served with valor in major conflicts including World War II, where it participated in operations across North Africa and Europe. Over the decades, 1-13 AR has deployed in support of missions during the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Known for its adaptability and combat effectiveness, the battalion continues to serve as a key armored force, upholding the proud traditions of the "Old Ironsides" Division.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Activation: The 1st Battalion, 13th Armor Regiment (1/13 AR) traces its lineage back to its activation on 1 July 1942 at Camp Beale, California, as part of the 1st Armored Division.
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World War II Service: The unit fought in North Africa and Italy during World War II, participating in major campaigns such as Tunisia, Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno, North Apennines, and Po Valley.
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Nickname: The 13th Armor Regiment is known as the "13th Tank," and its motto is "Super Ardua," which means "Through Adversity."
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Korean War: While the 13th Armor Regiment as a whole was not deployed to Korea, elements and personnel from the regiment served in various capacities during the conflict.
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Cold War Service: 1/13 AR served in Germany during the Cold War as part of the U.S. commitment to NATO, helping to deter Soviet aggression in Europe.
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Persian Gulf War: The battalion participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, where it was involved in the liberation of Kuwait and the defeat of Iraqi forces.
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Modern Deployments: Since 9/11, 1/13 AR has deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, engaging in combat and stability operations.
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Distinctive Insignia: The unit's distinctive unit insignia features a green and gold shield with a black tank tread, symbolizing its mechanized heritage and mobility.
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Training New Soldiers: 1/13 AR has played a key role at Fort Bliss, Texas, as part of the 1st Armored Division, training and preparing soldiers for modern armored warfare.
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Honors and Awards: The battalion and its soldiers have earned numerous unit and individual decorations, including Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and several campaign streamers for their service in multiple conflicts.
