About this Unit
Bravo Company, 501st Support and Transportation (Bco 501st S&T) has a distinguished lineage within the U.S. Army’s logistics and support community. Activated during World War II as part of the 501st Regiment, the unit provided vital supply and transportation services to frontline forces across the European Theater. Over the decades, Bco 501st S&T has supported numerous operations, from Cold War deployments in Europe to logistical missions in the Middle East. Today, the company continues its tradition of excellence, ensuring rapid and reliable support to sustain combat operations worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins in Vietnam: B Company, 501st Supply & Transportation (S&T) Battalion was originally constituted during the Vietnam War as part of the 101st Airborne Division, providing vital logistical support during major campaigns.
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Support Role in Air Assault Operations: The unit played a crucial role in supporting the 101st Airborne Division's transition to Air Assault operations, managing the complex logistics of helicopter-borne warfare.
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Nickname "The Bastard Company": Bco 501st S&T earned the informal nickname "The Bastard Company" due to its reputation for tackling the toughest supply challenges under difficult circumstances.
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Operation Lam Son 719: The Company was instrumental in providing logistical support during Operation Lam Son 719 in 1971, a major offensive into Laos aimed at disrupting the Ho Chi Minh Trail.
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Medal-Winning Service: Members of Bco 501st S&T received multiple commendations, including Bronze Star Medals, for their dedication and bravery in hazardous resupply missions.
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Innovation in Logistics: The Company pioneered creative methods for moving supplies in unforgiving terrain, including "sling-loading" supplies under helicopters to remote firebases.
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Surviving the Tet Offensive: During the 1968 Tet Offensive, Bco 501st S&T was critical in ensuring uninterrupted ammunition and rations supply to embattled units.
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Legacy of Brotherhood: Veterans of Bco 501st S&T formed a tight-knit brotherhood, holding reunions and maintaining connections decades after their service.
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Transition and Deactivation: After Vietnam, the 501st S&T was eventually deactivated and later reflagged under different Army logistics units, but its lineage and honors remain preserved in Army history.
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Motto and Emblem: The 501st S&T Battalion’s motto, “Support the Mission,” and its distinctive unit insignia continue to embody the vital importance of logistics in military success.
