About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment (2/68th Armor) traces its lineage to the 68th Armor, originally activated in 1940 at Fort Benning, Georgia. During World War II, the battalion fought with distinction as part of the 6th Armored Division, participating in key campaigns across Europe, including Normandy, Northern France, and the Battle of the Bulge. Reorganized and reactivated multiple times during the Cold War, 2/68th Armor served with the 8th Infantry Division in Germany, playing a crucial role in NATO’s defense posture. In more recent history, the unit has supported operations in the Middle East, upholding its legacy of readiness and armored warfare excellence.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 2nd Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment (2/68th Armor) traces its lineage to the 68th Tank Battalion, originally activated in 1940, making it part of the early mechanized forces of the U.S. Army.
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World War II Service: The 68th Armor Regiment fought bravely in Europe during WWII, taking part in campaigns across France, Belgium, and Germany, including the Battle of the Bulge.
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Cold War Deployments: During the Cold War, elements of 2/68th Armor served in West Germany as part of NATO forces, standing ready to counter any Soviet aggression.
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Persian Gulf War: 2/68th Armor was part of the 8th Infantry Division (Mechanized) and played a role during Operation Desert Storm, contributing to the liberation of Kuwait in 1991.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit’s insignia features a black panther, symbolizing stealth, strength, and courage—qualities associated with armored units.
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Nickname: The battalion has been known by the nickname "Panthers," reflecting the emblematic animal on its crest.
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Training Excellence: 2/68th Armor has been recognized several times for excellence in gunnery and maneuver training, earning accolades at major training centers such as Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels in Germany.
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Post-Cold War Reorganizations: Like many armored units, 2/68th Armor underwent several activations, inactivations, and reassignments as the U.S. Army restructured after the Cold War.
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Decorations: The regiment and its battalions have received several Presidential Unit Citations and campaign streamers for their actions in WWII and later conflicts.
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Modern Legacy: Elements of the 2/68th Armor have participated in peacekeeping and combat operations in the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan, adapting to new missions beyond traditional tank warfare.
