About this Unit
Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, has a distinguished history dating back to its activation in 1917 during World War I. The brigade participated in major campaigns in both World Wars, including the Normandy landings and the liberation of France. During the Vietnam War, the 1st Brigade played a significant role in numerous combat operations. In recent decades, HHC, 1st Brigade has deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, earning a reputation for professionalism and mission success.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Early Years: The 4th Infantry Division, also known as the "Ivy Division," was activated in 1917. The 1st Brigade and its Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) trace their lineage back through the division's long history of service.
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World War II Service: The 4th Infantry Division played a crucial role during World War II, landing on Utah Beach during D-Day. The units that would become part of the modern HHC, 1st Brigade, were integral to these operations.
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Vietnam War Operations: The brigade headquarters managed combat operations in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, coordinating numerous search and destroy missions and defending key outposts.
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Mechanized Transformation: In the 1970s and 1980s, HHC, 1st Brigade oversaw the transition of its subordinate units to mechanized infantry, enhancing their combat power and mobility.
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Innovators in Digital Warfare: The 4th Infantry Division, including the 1st Brigade, was the Army’s first “digital division,” pioneering the use of advanced command, control, and communication systems in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: HHC, 1st Brigade played a pivotal role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq, supporting the capture of Saddam Hussein and conducting extensive stability operations in the Tikrit area.
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Symbolism: The ivy leaf in the division’s patch stands for tenacity and fidelity. The division’s motto, “Steadfast and Loyal,” reflects the enduring spirit of HHC, 1st Brigade.
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Joint Operations: HHC, 1st Brigade has regularly worked alongside allied and partner nations, participating in multinational exercises and deployments such as Operation Atlantic Resolve in Europe.
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Decorations: The brigade and its headquarters have earned numerous commendations, including Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and foreign decorations for their service in multiple conflicts.
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Home Station: HHC, 1st Brigade is currently based at Fort Carson, Colorado, where it continues to train and prepare for rapid deployment anywhere in the world.
