556th Light Maintenance Company (DS)

• Vietnam War Service: The 556th Light Maintenance Company (Direct Support) was activated and deployed to Vietnam, providing essential maintenance support to combat units in the field. • Location in Vietnam: The company was stationed at Long Binh Post, one of the largest US Army bases in Vietnam, which served as a logistics and support hub. • Direct Support Role: As a Direct Support (DS) maintenance company, the 556th was responsible for repairing and maintaining a wide range of vehicles, weapons, and equipment, ensuring operational readiness for frontline units. • Multi-Service Support: The unit provided maintenance not only to US Army units but occasionally assisted allied forces, including ARVN and Australian military contingents. • Unit Motto: The 556th adopted the motto “Keep ‘Em Rolling,” reflecting their crucial role in sustaining mobility and firepower for combat operations. • Award Recognition: Members of the 556th received various commendations and unit citations for their exemplary service under challenging conditions, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation. • Tet Offensive Response: During the 1968 Tet Offensive, the company’s personnel played a key role in rapidly repairing damaged vehicles and equipment, contributing to the defense of Long Binh and surrounding areas. • Innovative Repairs: The unit gained a reputation for improvising repairs in the field, often fabricating parts or adapting equipment to keep vehicles operational in the harsh jungle environment. • Post-Vietnam Legacy: After the Vietnam War, the 556th Light Maintenance Company’s traditions and lineage were absorbed into subsequent support units as the Army restructured its maintenance and logistics forces. • Veteran Community: Veterans of the 556th have maintained a close-knit community, sharing their stories and experiences through reunions and online forums dedicated to preserving the unit’s history.