HHC 3:37 Armor Battalion First Infantry Division

• Origins: The 3rd Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment (3/37 Armor) traces its lineage back to the original 37th Armored Regiment, activated in 1941 as part of the U.S. Army’s rapid expansion before and during World War II. • “First Tank” Division: The battalion was assigned to the legendary 1st Infantry Division, also known as “The Big Red One,” one of the most decorated and storied units in the U.S. Army. • Cold War Service: Throughout the Cold War, 3/37 Armor played a key role in NATO’s defense posture in Europe, stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. Army Europe’s forward-deployed forces. • Desert Storm: The battalion, including its Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), participated in Operation Desert Storm (1991), spearheading the ground offensive into Iraq and Kuwait as part of the famous “left hook” maneuver. • “Iron Dukes” Nickname: The 3/37 Armor Battalion was nicknamed the “Iron Dukes,” a moniker inspired by the British general the Duke of Wellington, reflecting their strength and resilience. • Valorous Unit Award: For its actions during the Gulf War, the battalion received the Valorous Unit Award, recognizing extraordinary heroism in combat against an armed enemy. • Tank Technology: The battalion was among the first in the U.S. Army to field the M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank, bringing cutting-edge firepower and protection to the battlefield. • Deactivation and Legacy: 3/37 Armor was deactivated in the mid-1990s as part of post-Cold War drawdowns. Its lineage and traditions continue within the armor community and the 1st Infantry Division. • HHC’s Role: Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) provided the essential command, control, intelligence, and logistics backbone for the battalion’s combat operations, often working behind the scenes to enable mission success. • Veteran Community: Former members of HHC 3/37 Armor and the battalion maintain an active network of veterans, sharing stories, reunions, and preserving the history of their service together.