About this Unit
The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 3rd Chemical Brigade, was originally constituted on 10 September 1942 in the Army of the United States as Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 3rd Chemical Battalion. The unit has served in various capacities, focusing on chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defense and training. Today, the 3rd Chemical Brigade is based at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where it plays a critical role in training Soldiers in CBRN defense skills and readiness for the U.S. Army. Throughout its history, HHC, 3rd Chemical Brigade has maintained a reputation for excellence in supporting both peacetime training and operational readiness.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 3rd Chemical Brigade traces its lineage to World War II, originally constituted as the 3rd Chemical Battalion in 1942, tasked with providing chemical support to U.S. Army forces.
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Specialization in CBRN: The unit specializes in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) defense, playing a vital role in protecting troops from unconventional threats.
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Training Headquarters: Headquartered at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, HHC (Headquarters and Headquarters Company), 3rd Chemical Brigade oversees the training of thousands of soldiers annually in CBRN skills.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The brigade's insignia features a dragon, symbolizing vigilance and readiness to respond to chemical threats, and represents the unit's motto, "Defend by Force."
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Role in Operation Iraqi Freedom: Soldiers trained by the 3rd Chemical Brigade were among the first to deploy during Operation Iraqi Freedom, tasked with detecting and neutralizing potential WMD threats.
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Advanced Training Facilities: The brigade utilizes state-of-the-art simulation and live-agent training facilities, including the Chemical Defense Training Facility (CDTF), one of the few places where U.S. troops can train with live chemical agents under controlled conditions.
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Multi-National Training: The brigade often hosts and trains allied and partner nation forces, strengthening international cooperation in CBRN defense.
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Support to Civil Authorities: The 3rd Chemical Brigade has provided expertise in response to domestic incidents, such as hazardous material spills and disaster response scenarios within the United States.
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Women in Leadership: The brigade has a history of promoting diversity, with women serving in key leadership and instructor roles, reflecting the evolving face of the U.S. Army.
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Legacy of Innovation: The unit has contributed to the development of new protective gear and decontamination procedures, influencing CBRN doctrine for the entire U.S. military.
