3:34th Armored Division

• Origins: The 3rd Brigade, 34th Armored Division (often referred to as 3/34th Armored) was part of the Minnesota Army National Guard during the Cold War and into the 1990s. • Cold War Mission: The brigade's primary mission was to serve as a strategic reserve for NATO forces in Europe, ready to be deployed in the event of a Soviet invasion. • Nickname: The 34th Division is famous for its "Red Bull" insignia, which was also worn by the 3rd Brigade, symbolizing strength and determination. • Armor Capabilities: 3/34th was equipped with M60 Patton tanks and later transitioned to the M1 Abrams main battle tank, keeping pace with technological advancements. • Annual Training: The brigade participated in extensive annual training exercises, including at Camp Ripley (Minnesota) and at the National Training Center (NTC) at Fort Irwin, California. • Desert Storm Alert: During the Gulf War (Operation Desert Storm), 3/34th Armored was alerted for possible mobilization, but ultimately was not deployed overseas. • Community Ties: Units of the 3/34th were based in several Minnesota communities, including St. Paul, Stillwater, and Rosemount, fostering strong local connections. • Deactivation: As part of post-Cold War military restructuring, the 34th Armored Division and its 3rd Brigade were deactivated in 1991, with elements reorganized under the 34th Infantry Division. • Legacy: Many veterans from the 3/34th Armored went on to serve in the reactivated 34th Infantry Division, carrying forward the Red Bull legacy. • Unit Pride: The 3/34th Armored maintained a strong esprit de corps, with reunions, historical associations, and published accounts preserving its unique history within the Minnesota National Guard.