AR 26

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About AR 26

AR 26, officially known as Artillery Regiment 26, was a unit of the German Wehrmacht active during World War II. Formed in the late 1930s, AR 26 was initially attached to the 26th Infantry Division and participated in the early campaigns of the war, including the invasions of Poland and France. The regiment provided crucial fire support on the Eastern Front, particularly during Operation Barbarossa and subsequent engagements against Soviet forces. AR 26 continued to serve until the final stages of the war, where it faced heavy losses in the defensive battles on the Eastern Front before being disbanded at the war’s end.

Unit Members

Anthony Ponce

U.S. Navy

AR 26View Profile

Leslie Snyder

U.S. Navy

AR 26View Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About AR 26

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: AR 26, often referring to the 26th Armored Regiment or 26th Artillery Regiment depending on the context and country, has roots dating back to World War II, where it played a crucial role in armored and artillery operations. • WWII Service: The 26th Armored Regiment of the US Army was part of the famous 1st Armored Division, which landed in North Africa during Operation Torch in 1942. • Nickname: The unit earned the nickname "The Iron Horsemen" due to its armored prowess and rapid mobility on the battlefield. • Battle Honors: AR 26 participated in key campaigns in North Africa, Italy, and later in the liberation of Europe, earning several unit citations and battle honors. • Cold War Deployments: During the Cold War, elements of the 26th were stationed in Germany as part of NATO’s forward defense strategy. • Tank Innovations: The regiment was among the first to operate the M4 Sherman tank and later transitioned to the M60 Patton and M1 Abrams tanks. • Decorations: Members of AR 26 have received numerous individual and unit awards, including Distinguished Service Crosses and Presidential Unit Citations. • Modern Era: In recent decades, AR 26 units have deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, providing armored support, convoy security, and training assistance to allied forces. • Traditions: The regiment maintains a strong esprit de corps, celebrating its anniversary with ceremonies and maintaining regimental museums and associations. • Famous Members: Several high-ranking generals and decorated soldiers began their careers in AR 26, contributing to its legacy of leadership and valor.