About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment (1/68 Armor) was originally constituted on 1 January 1942 in the Regular Army as Company A, 68th Armored Regiment. It fought with distinction in World War II as part of the 6th Armored Division, participating in campaigns including Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe. In the postwar era, the battalion saw multiple activations, inactivations, and redesignations, serving under the 8th Infantry Division and later the 4th Infantry Division. In recent decades, 1/68 Armor has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy of armored excellence and combat readiness.
Historical Facts
• World War II Origins: The 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment traces its lineage back to the 68th Armored Regiment, which was constituted in 1940 and activated at Fort Benning, Georgia, as the U.S. prepared for World War II.
• North Africa Campaign: Elements of the 68th Armor Regiment first saw combat in the North African Campaign, fighting alongside British and American forces against German Afrika Korps under Field Marshal Rommel.
• Normandy and Beyond: The regiment participated in the Normandy landings and subsequent European campaigns, contributing to the liberation of France, Belgium, and the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany.
• Cold War Service: During the Cold War, 1/68th Armor was stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. Army’s forward-deployed force, prepared to defend NATO allies against potential Soviet aggression.
• Reflagging and Reorganization: The battalion underwent several reorganizations and reflagging, at times serving under the 8th Infantry Division and later the 4th Infantry Division, adapting to changing Army structures and missions.
• Gulf War Participation: 1/68th Armor deployed to Southwest Asia as part of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, playing a key role in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991.
• Modern Deployments: The unit has seen multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, serving in both combat and stability operations.
• “Silver Lions” Nickname: The battalion is known as the “Silver Lions,” reflecting its regimental insignia and the fierce fighting spirit of its soldiers.
• Tank Innovation: Over its history, 1/68th Armor has operated various tanks, from the M4 Sherman in WWII to the modern M1 Abrams Main Battle Tank, showcasing technological evolution in armored warfare.
• Distinguished Honors: The battalion and its antecedents have earned numerous campaign streamers and decorations, including Presidential Unit Citations, for extraordinary heroism and service in battle.
