About this Unit
Headquarters Company (Hq CO), Fort Wainwright, Alaska, serves as the central administrative and support hub for various units stationed at Fort Wainwright. The installation itself, established in 1939 as Ladd Field and later renamed in honor of General Jonathan M. Wainwright, has played a key role in Arctic defense, Cold War operations, and modern military training. Hq CO provides essential command, control, and logistical support for missions conducted in Alaska’s challenging environment, supporting units such as the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. Over the decades, Hq CO has adapted to evolving operational needs, contributing to both homeland defense and overseas deployments.
Historical Facts
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Strategic Location: Headquarters Company (Hq CO) at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, is situated near Fairbanks and is a critical hub for U.S. Army operations in the Arctic and subarctic regions.
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Home of the 11th Airborne Division: Fort Wainwright currently serves as the home base for the 11th Airborne Division, which focuses on rapid deployment and Arctic warfare, with Hq CO providing essential command and control support.
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World War II Origins: The installation was originally established in 1939 as Ladd Field, primarily supporting cold-weather testing for military aircraft and equipment during World War II.
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Cold War Role: During the Cold War, the base played a vital role in air defense and Arctic training, with Hq CO facilitating coordination of large-scale joint exercises with international partners.
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Support for Joint Forces: Hq CO at Fort Wainwright coordinates not only Army units but also supports joint training with Air Force, National Guard, and allied forces.
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Arctic Warriors: Units stationed at Fort Wainwright, including Hq CO, are known as "Arctic Warriors," trained for extreme weather, survival, and operations in some of the world's harshest environments.
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Historic Long Marches: Soldiers from Hq CO and associated units have participated in historic long-distance marches and maneuvers, testing mobility and endurance in snow and ice.
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Community Integration: Hq CO helps organize events and outreach programs, strengthening the bond between the military community and the city of Fairbanks.
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Environmental Stewardship: The unit is involved in environmental protection initiatives, balancing training requirements with conservation of Alaska's unique ecosystems.
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Notable Deployments: Personnel from Hq CO have supported missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, and humanitarian operations worldwide, demonstrating adaptability from Arctic to desert environments.
