ARPAC Larson barracks

• Strategic Cold War Location: Larson Barracks, located in Kitzingen, Germany, was a crucial US Army installation during the Cold War, serving as a forward base for rapid deployment into Eastern Europe. • ARPAC Heritage: The term "ARPAC" refers to the US Army Personnel Command, which played a role in managing and assigning personnel to units stationed at Larson Barracks. • Home to Aviation Units: The barracks were notably home to the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, and previously to the 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, providing vital air support and reconnaissance capabilities. • World War II Origins: Originally constructed in the late 1930s by the German military as Fliegerhorst Kitzingen (an airfield), it was seized by US forces in 1945 and converted for American use. • Named After a Hero: The barracks were renamed in honor of Private First Class Jack T. Larson, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery in World War II. • Multinational Operations: Larson Barracks hosted joint training exercises and multinational operations, strengthening NATO alliances and interoperability. • Community Impact: The base fostered a unique American-German community, with many local businesses and cultural exchanges benefiting from the US military presence. • Important Deployments: Units from Larson Barracks were deployed to major operations including Desert Storm, Operation Joint Endeavor in the Balkans, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. • Closure and Legacy: The barracks were officially closed in 2007 as part of US military realignment in Europe, but many of the old buildings remain and have been repurposed by the local community. • Stories of Service: Many veterans recall the camaraderie and readiness drills at Larson, including stories of impromptu concerts, holiday celebrations, and the ever-present sound of helicopters preparing for missions.