HHC 1:161 INF

• Origins in the 19th Century: The 1st Battalion, 161st Infantry Regiment traces its lineage back to Washington Territorial Militia units formed in 1886, giving it a proud history spanning over 130 years. • World War I Service: The unit served as part of the 41st Infantry Division in World War I, where it was federalized in 1917 and deployed to France. • Pacific Campaign in WWII: During World War II, the 161st Infantry fought valiantly in the Pacific Theater, including campaigns in Guadalcanal, New Georgia, and the Philippines. • HHC Role: The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) provides command, control, and administrative support for the battalion, serving as its nerve center. • Decorated Service: The 161st Infantry Regiment has received numerous unit awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation and Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, recognizing extraordinary heroism and service. • National Guard Identity: The battalion is part of the Washington Army National Guard and has a dual state and federal mission, often supporting both overseas deployments and domestic emergency responses. • Bosnia and Kosovo Deployments: In the late 1990s and 2000s, elements of the 1-161 INF, including HHC, deployed to the Balkans as part of peacekeeping operations in Bosnia and Kosovo. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The unit deployed to Iraq in 2004-2005 and again in later years, supporting combat and stability operations, with HHC playing a pivotal role in battalion operations. • Community Support: Members of HHC 1/161 INF have responded to natural disasters in Washington State, including wildfires and floods, reflecting their vital local role. • Regimental Motto: The 161st Infantry’s motto is “First in War – First in Peace,” reflecting its readiness and commitment to both combat and community service.