13TH SIGNAL BATTALION, 1ST CAVALRY DIVISION

• Formation and Early Years: The 13th Signal Battalion was first constituted on 3 January 1941 in the Regular Army as the 13th Signal Company, part of the 1st Cavalry Division. • World War II Service: The battalion served with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in campaigns in the Admiralty Islands, Leyte, and Luzon. • Korean War Involvement: The 13th Signal Battalion provided critical communications support for the 1st Cavalry Division during intense fighting throughout the Korean War. • Vietnam War Deployments: The battalion deployed to Vietnam with the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), supporting major operations including the famous Battle of Ia Drang in 1965. • Nickname – "Lucky 13": The battalion has been referred to as “Lucky 13,” a nod to its numerical designation and reputation for resilience under fire. • Innovative Communications: The 13th Signal Battalion was a pioneer in the use of helicopter-borne radio relay teams in Vietnam, greatly expanding the range and reliability of battlefield communications. • Cold War Era: During the Cold War, the battalion was stationed in Germany as part of NATO forces, maintaining readiness against potential Warsaw Pact threats. • Desert Shield/Desert Storm: The battalion deployed to Southwest Asia during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-1991, providing essential signal support for coalition operations. • Humanitarian Missions: The 13th Signal Battalion has supported numerous humanitarian and peacekeeping missions, including Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and operations in Bosnia. • Deactivation and Legacy: The battalion was inactivated in the early 2000s as part of Army restructuring, but its legacy of innovation, adaptability, and service endures within the 1st Cavalry Division’s communications units.