HHQ 1:143rd Infantry

• Lineage: The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 1st Battalion, 143rd Infantry Regiment traces its lineage back to the original Texas militia units formed in the 19th century, making it one of the oldest military organizations in Texas. • Redesignation: The 143rd Infantry has seen several redesignations and reorganizations throughout its history, including service as part of the 36th Infantry Division ("Texas Division") during World War II. • World War II Service: The 143rd Infantry fought in key campaigns during WWII, including the Salerno landings in Italy in 1943, earning numerous campaign streamers and decorations. • Texas National Guard: Today, HHC 1/143rd Infantry is a unit of the Texas Army National Guard, maintaining its state and federal mission roles. • Post-9/11 Deployments: Members of the 1/143rd have deployed in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, serving with distinction overseas. • Airborne Designation: In 2010, the 1st Battalion, 143rd Infantry was reorganized as an Airborne unit, making it one of the few Airborne infantry battalions in the National Guard. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 143rd Infantry’s insignia features a blue shield and a white star, symbolizing its Texas heritage and infantry designation. • Disaster Response: In addition to federal missions, HHC 1/143rd has participated in numerous state emergency responses, including Hurricane Harvey relief efforts in 2017. • Training Partnerships: The unit regularly conducts joint training with active duty and international military partners, enhancing its Airborne and light infantry skills. • Commemoration: The 143rd Infantry is commemorated at the Texas Military Forces Museum in Austin, where artifacts and stories from its long history are displayed.