HHC 3rd 64th Armored

• Origins in World War II: The 64th Armored Regiment traces its lineage to World War II, where its parent units played key roles in the European Theater, participating in campaigns such as Normandy and the Rhineland. • Cold War Deployment: HHC 3rd Battalion, 64th Armored, was stationed in Germany throughout much of the Cold War as part of the U.S. Army’s forward presence to deter Soviet aggression, primarily under the 3rd Infantry Division. • Reforger Exercises: The unit participated in numerous REFORGER (Return of Forces to Germany) exercises, which tested NATO’s ability to rapidly deploy troops to Europe in the event of conflict. • Desert Storm Participation: Elements of the 64th Armor, including HHC 3-64th, deployed to Saudi Arabia for Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, playing a role in the liberation of Kuwait. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: HHC 3-64 Armor deployed from Fort Stewart, Georgia, as part of the 3rd Infantry Division during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, famously participating in the "Thunder Run" into Baghdad. • Modernization: The battalion was among the first to field the M1A1 Abrams tank, representing a major leap in firepower and survivability over earlier tank models. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit's insignia features a black panther, symbolizing stealth and power, with the motto "We Pierce," reflecting the armored mission of breaking through enemy lines. • Partnerships and Exchanges: While stationed in Germany, HHC 3-64 Armor participated in partnership programs with German Bundeswehr units, fostering interoperability and camaraderie. • Combat Decorations: The 64th Armor Regiment and its battalions have received numerous awards, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards for actions in World War II, Desert Storm, and Iraq. • Deactivation and Reactivation: Like many Army units, HHC 3-64 Armor has seen periods of inactivation and reactivation, reflecting changes in force structure and global military needs over the decades.