About this Unit
Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, traces its lineage to the historic 12th Infantry Regiment, originally constituted in 1861. The 4th Battalion has served with distinction in various conflicts, including the Vietnam War, where it was assigned to the 199th Light Infantry Brigade and participated in major operations such as the Tet Offensive. Over the decades, HHC 4/12th Infantry has provided vital command, control, and administrative support to its line companies during both combat and peacetime missions. Today, the unit continues its proud tradition, embodying the motto "Ducti Amore Patriae"—Led by Love of Country.
Historical Facts
•
Lineage: The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment traces its origins to the 12th Infantry Regiment, which was constituted in 1861 during the American Civil War.
•
Vietnam War Service: The 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry (4/12th Inf.) served with distinction in the Vietnam War as part of the 199th Light Infantry Brigade, participating in numerous operations and engagements.
•
Tet Offensive: In January 1968, HHC 4/12th Inf. played a crucial role during the Tet Offensive, helping defend Saigon and conducting operations against Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces.
•
Notable Commanders: The battalion has had several notable commanders throughout its history, some of whom went on to attain general officer rank.
•
Campaign Streamers: The unit has earned multiple campaign streamers, including those for World War II, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism, reflecting its longstanding service.
•
Valor Awards: Soldiers of HHC 4/12th Inf. have been awarded numerous individual and unit citations for valor, including Silver Stars and Presidential Unit Citations.
•
Cold War Duty: After Vietnam, the 4/12th Infantry was stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. Army’s forward-deployed forces during the Cold War, helping to deter Soviet aggression.
•
Transformation: The battalion has been inactivated and reactivated multiple times as the Army has transformed and reorganized, showing its adaptability and enduring legacy.
•
Training Missions: In more recent years, elements of the 4/12th Infantry have been involved in training missions, including serving as opposition force (OPFOR) units at major training centers.
•
Regimental Motto: The 12th Infantry Regiment’s motto is "Ducti Amore Patriae" ("Having Been Led by Love of Country"), a phrase proudly carried by HHC 4/12th Inf. through all its service.