Paul Martin

The 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), also known as the "Legion," was activated in 1961 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and is now headquartered at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The unit gained distinction during the Vietnam War, conducting unconventional warfare, counterinsurgency, and direct action missions. Since then, the 5th SFG(A) has played key roles in operations across the Middle East, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Renowned for their expertise in foreign internal defense and special reconnaissance, the 5th Special Forces Group remains a vital component of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command.

Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), Army Reserve Readiness Training Center (ARRTC), located at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, serves as the command and administrative element for the ARRTC. Established to support the training and readiness of Army Reserve units, HHC ARRTC coordinates critical administrative, logistical, and operational functions. Over the years, the unit has played a pivotal role in preparing soldiers and leaders through a variety of courses and exercises, enhancing overall reserve component readiness. Fort McCoy has been a central hub for Army Reserve training since World War II, and HHC ARRTC continues this legacy by ensuring all supported units are mission-ready.

The 222nd Aviation Battalion, stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, is a key aviation unit supporting U.S. Army operations in the Arctic region. Activated in 1986, the unit provides air assault, medevac, and logistical support to ground forces, specializing in operations under extreme cold weather conditions. The battalion operates a variety of rotary-wing aircraft, including UH-60 Black Hawks, to ensure rapid troop movement and supply delivery across Alaska’s challenging terrain. Over the years, the 222nd Aviation has participated in numerous training exercises and joint operations, reinforcing its vital role in Arctic defense and readiness.

44th Medical Brigade

U.S. Army

The 44th Medical Brigade is a unit in the United States Army that provides command and control for medical units and personnel. They are responsible for ensuring the health and medical readiness of soldiers in their assigned area of operations. The brigade is trained to provide medical support in both combat and humanitarian missions. They play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of military personnel in all types of situations.

82nd Airborne

U.S. Army

The 82nd Airborne Division is a specialized infantry division of the United States Army. It is known for its rapid deployment capability and ability to conduct airborne operations. The division has a long and storied history, playing a crucial role in World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada, Operation Just Cause in Panama, the Gulf War, and more recently in Iraq and Afghanistan. The 82nd Airborne Division is based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and remains one of the most highly trained and ready divisions in the U.S. Army.

The 98th Division (Training), headquartered in Rochester, NY 14609, was originally activated in 1918 as part of the National Army during World War I but was quickly demobilized following the Armistice. Reactivated for World War II, the division was responsible for training soldiers and later deployed to the Pacific Theater, preparing for the invasion of Japan before the war ended. Post-war, the 98th Division transformed into a training unit within the Army Reserve, focusing on basic and advanced individual training for new recruits. Throughout its history, the division has played a crucial role in preparing soldiers for service, maintaining a strong presence in the Rochester area.

The United States Army Recruiting Command (USAREC) was established in October 1964 to centralize and streamline the Army’s recruiting efforts across the nation. Headquartered at Fort Knox, Kentucky, USAREC is responsible for recruiting enlisted soldiers and officers for both the Regular Army and the Army Reserve. Throughout its history, USAREC has adapted to changing manpower needs, technological advancements, and shifting public attitudes toward military service. The command plays a crucial role in maintaining the Army’s strength by finding, enlisting, and preparing qualified individuals to serve.

Company C, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, traces its lineage to the storied "Manchu" regiment, originally activated in the 19th century. Reorganized and deployed throughout the Cold War, the unit played a critical role in Arctic training and defense, preparing soldiers for operations in extreme environments. During its time at Fort Wainwright, Company C participated in numerous joint exercises and readiness missions, supporting U.S. Army Alaska’s strategic objectives. The unit’s legacy of resilience and adaptability continues to be honored by its soldiers and the broader Army community.

Bassett Army Hospital, located at Fort Wainwright near Fairbanks, Alaska, was established in 1951 and named in honor of Lieutenant Colonel Merle H. Bassett, a distinguished Army medical officer. Originally built to provide comprehensive medical care for soldiers and their families stationed in the harsh Arctic environment, the hospital became an integral part of the United States Army Alaska (USARAL) command. Throughout the Cold War, Bassett Army Hospital played a crucial role in supporting military readiness and responding to emergencies in the region. Over the decades, it has evolved into a modern medical facility, continuing its tradition of service to the military community in Alaska.