About this Unit
Company B, 3rd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, boasts a distinguished service record within the United States Army. Activated during World War II, the regiment fought valiantly in the European Theater, participating in major campaigns such as the Normandy invasion and the liberation of France. During the Vietnam War, Company B, as part of the 4th Infantry Division, was heavily engaged in operations in the Central Highlands, earning commendations for its bravery and effectiveness in combat. In the decades since, the unit has continued to serve with distinction in various deployments, supporting U.S. military operations and upholding its proud legacy.
Historical Facts
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Vietnam War Service: Company B, 3rd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division was heavily engaged in combat operations during the Vietnam War, primarily operating in the Central Highlands region, including Kontum and Pleiku provinces.
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Operation Francis Marion: In 1967, Company B participated in Operation Francis Marion, a major campaign aimed at disrupting North Vietnamese Army (NVA) infiltration along the Cambodian border, frequently engaging in intense firefights and ambushes.
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Battle of Dak To: During the fierce Battle of Dak To in November 1967, the 3rd Battalion, including Company B, fought viciously to repel NVA forces from strategic hilltops, suffering heavy casualties in one of the war's bloodiest battles.
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Presidential Unit Citation: The 3rd Battalion, 12th Infantry was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism and gallantry in action during the battle for Hill 1338 and surrounding actions at Dak To.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Several soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, including men from Company B, were awarded the Medal of Honor for their valor in Vietnam, such as Staff Sergeant Delbert O. Jennings for his actions near Dak To.
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Jungle Warfare: Company B endured harsh jungle conditions, booby traps, and constant enemy contact, making them experts in small-unit tactics, ambushes, and counter-insurgency operations.
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Montagnard Allies: The unit often worked alongside Montagnard tribesmen, indigenous people of Vietnam’s Central Highlands, who served as scouts and provided vital intelligence on enemy movements.
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Ambush at Ben Het: Company B was involved in the defense of Ben Het Special Forces Camp, which endured repeated attacks and artillery barrages from NVA forces in 1969.
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Commemoration and Reunions: Veterans of Company B, 3rd of the 12th, hold regular reunions and participate in memorial activities to honor their fallen comrades and keep their history alive.
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Legacy: The unit’s legacy of valor and sacrifice is preserved today by historians, veterans’ organizations, and through the 4th Infantry Division’s ongoing service in the U.S. Army.
