Barry Horner

The 10th Engineer Battalion, originally constituted in 1916, is a storied unit of the United States Army with a distinguished history of service. Throughout World War II, the battalion played a vital role in supporting combat operations across the European Theater by constructing critical bridges, clearing obstacles, and facilitating troop movements. During the Vietnam War, the 10th Engineer Battalion provided essential engineering support, including building bases, roads, and fortifications under challenging conditions. In more recent decades, the battalion has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its tradition of enabling mobility, survivability, and operational success for U.S. and allied forces.

The 709th Military Police Battalion was activated on 9 May 1942 at Camp Niantic, Connecticut, during World War II. It participated in the Normandy landings and subsequent European campaigns, providing critical military police support throughout France, Belgium, and Germany. After the war, the battalion remained in Europe, becoming a key element of U.S. Army Europe’s law enforcement and security operations. Today, the 709th MP Battalion is headquartered in Germany and continues to provide military police support across Europe, upholding its longstanding mission of security, order, and discipline.

The 229th Aviation Battalion was activated in 1965 as part of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, assigned primarily to provide air assault and support operations. It became best known as part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), participating in major actions including the famous Battle of Ia Drang. The battalion flew UH-1 Huey helicopters and later AH-1 Cobra gunships, developing tactics that would define modern air cavalry operations. Over the years, the 229th has been reorganized and redesignated, with its legacy continuing in today’s 229th Aviation Regiment, supporting missions in various global conflicts.

The Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM) of the Philippine Army was established on January 1, 1977, to oversee the organization, training, and operational readiness of Army reserve units across the country. Tasked with mobilizing reservists for national defense, disaster response, and community support, ARESCOM has played a vital role in augmenting the regular force during both peacetime and emergencies. Over the years, it has developed extensive training programs to maintain the competence and discipline of its reservists. Today, ARESCOM continues to serve as a critical component of the Philippine Army's total force, embodying the spirit of citizen soldiery and readiness for service.