Hq & Hq Co. 1:13th Armor

• Formation: Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 13th Armor (HHC, 1/13th Armor) was originally constituted in 1942 as part of the 13th Armored Regiment during World War II. • Nickname: The 13th Armored Regiment is known as the "Black Cats," a moniker reflecting their mascot and esprit de corps. • World War II Service: The unit participated in major campaigns in the European Theater, including the Rhineland and Central Europe, contributing to the final Allied push into Germany. • Cold War Reorganizations: The battalion saw numerous re-designations and reorganizations during the Cold War, adapting to evolving armored warfare doctrines and equipment. • Desert Storm: Elements of the 1/13th Armor participated in Operation Desert Storm, supporting coalition forces in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991. • Modernization: The battalion has been equipped with various generations of main battle tanks, including the M48 Patton, M60, and later the M1 Abrams, reflecting advances in armored technology. • Training Mission: HHC, 1/13th Armor has played a significant role at Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood) and later at Fort Knox and Fort Bliss, training thousands of soldiers in armored warfare. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The battalion deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, engaging in combat and stability operations. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit’s insignia features a black cat and armored symbolism, a nod to its heritage and combat prowess. • Community Engagement: HHC, 1/13th Armor has a history of community outreach, participating in public events and fostering strong ties with local communities near its home stations.