About this Unit
The 1/33rd Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) is the command and control element of the 1st Battalion, 33rd Infantry Regiment, a storied unit with roots tracing back to World War I. Throughout its history, the HHC has provided essential leadership, planning, and logistical support, enabling the battalion’s combat operations in major conflicts such as World War II, the Korean War, and recent deployments in the Middle East. The company is responsible for coordinating intelligence, communications, and administrative functions, ensuring operational effectiveness and unit cohesion. Today, the 1/33rd HHC continues to uphold its proud legacy, supporting both training and real-world missions wherever called.
Historical Facts
•
Origins: The 1st Battalion, 33rd Armor (1/33rd), traces its lineage to World War II, originally activated in 1941 as part of the 3rd Armored Division, also known as the "Spearhead" division.
•
Normandy Landings: The 1/33rd participated in the Normandy landings, fighting their way from Omaha Beach through France and Germany, earning a distinguished reputation for effectiveness in armored warfare.
•
Battle of the Bulge: Elements of the 1/33rd played a crucial role in the Battle of the Bulge, helping to halt the German offensive and contributing to the eventual Allied victory in Europe.
•
Cold War Service: During the Cold War, the 1/33rd was stationed in Germany as part of NATO forces, serving as a frontline deterrent against potential Warsaw Pact aggression.
•
Reflagging and Modernization: The 33rd Armor was reflagged multiple times, becoming the 1st Battalion, 33rd Armor Regiment, and later the 1st Battalion, 33rd Cavalry Regiment, reflecting changes in Army structure and mission.
•
Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC): The HHC provides command and control, logistics, and administrative support to the battalion, often referred to as the "backbone" of the unit.
•
Iraq and Afghanistan Deployments: The 1/33rd has deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, conducting a range of missions including security, combat, and nation-building.
•
Valorous Unit Awards: Throughout its history, the 1/33rd and its HHC have earned multiple unit citations, including the Presidential Unit Citation and Valorous Unit Award for extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance.
•
Innovations: The 1/33rd has been at the forefront of armored warfare, pioneering tactics involving combined arms teams of tanks, infantry, and engineers—techniques still studied in military academies.
•
Regimental Motto: The unit's motto, "Men of War," reflects its storied history and continued commitment to excellence, valor, and readiness in defense of the nation.