1:34th Armor

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the 1:34th Armor?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the 1:34th Armor?

Do you have 1:34th Armor photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the 1:34th Armor.

Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 1:34th Armor

The 1st Battalion, 34th Armor Regiment (1/34th Armor) traces its origins to the formation of the 34th Armored Regiment during World War II. The unit saw extensive combat in the European Theater, participating in major campaigns such as Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. In the postwar era, 1/34th Armor served with distinction as part of various U.S. Army armored divisions, adapting to changing roles during the Cold War and beyond. More recently, the battalion has contributed to Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, maintaining its reputation for excellence in armored warfare and training.

Unit Members

Terrance Davis

U.S. Army

1:34th ArmorView Profile

Jerry Terry

U.S. Army

1:34th ArmorView Profile

Photos

U.S. Army • 1974

U.S. Army • 1976

About 1:34th Armor

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 1st Battalion, 34th Armor Regiment traces its lineage back to the 34th Armored Regiment, which was constituted on 28 August 1941 at Fort Knox, Kentucky. • World War II Service: The unit served with distinction in World War II, participating in campaigns in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe. • Normandy Landings: Elements of 34th Armor landed in Normandy shortly after D-Day, supporting infantry and pushing through the hedgerows in the drive to liberate France. • Reactivation for Vietnam: The battalion was reactivated in 1963 and deployed to Vietnam with the 4th Infantry Division, providing armored support in the Central Highlands. • Nickname - "Centurions": 1-34 Armor is known as the "Centurions," a name reflecting both the Roman military tradition and armored strength. • Cold War Role: After Vietnam, the battalion was stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. Army’s NATO commitment, prepared to defend against Warsaw Pact aggression. • Gulf War Deployments: Although the unit itself did not deploy as a battalion in Desert Storm, many of its soldiers and leaders saw action with other units. • Transformation and Training: The 1/34th Armor has been a key training battalion at Fort Riley, Kansas, preparing new generations of tankers and armored crewmen. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The battalion deployed to Iraq in 2005-2006, conducting combat and stability operations primarily in the Baghdad area. • Legacy of Valor: The battalion’s colors display numerous campaign streamers and decorations, including the French Croix de Guerre with Palm, evidencing its legacy of bravery and sacrifice.