Jason Griner

The 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment (2/1st Infantry), known as the "Guardians," traces its origins to the early 19th century as part of the original 1st Infantry Regiment of the United States Army, established in 1791. Throughout its distinguished history, 2/1st Infantry has seen action in major conflicts, including the War of 1812, the Civil War, World War II—where it participated in campaigns in North Africa, Sicily, and Europe—and the Vietnam War. In more recent decades, the battalion has served as part of the 1st Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Today, 2/1st Infantry continues its legacy of service and excellence, maintaining readiness for worldwide deployment in defense of U.S. interests.

The 619th Ordnance Company (619th ORD CO) was a United States Army unit stationed at North Point, Germany, during the Cold War era. Tasked primarily with the storage, maintenance, and security of special weapons, the company played a critical role in NATO’s deterrence strategy in Europe. Personnel of the 619th ORD CO were highly trained in munitions handling and operated under strict security protocols due to the sensitive nature of their mission. The unit was eventually deactivated following the end of the Cold War, as part of broader reductions and realignments of U.S. forces in Germany.

**Army Recruiting Command – Chico, CA** is part of the United States Army Recruiting Command (USAREC), tasked with enlisting qualified individuals into the Army from the northern California region. Established to support the Army’s personnel needs, the Chico station has operated for decades as a vital link between local communities and military service, adapting to changing recruitment strategies and national defense priorities. The unit’s recruiters are responsible for public outreach, applicant screening, and ensuring recruits meet the Army’s rigorous standards. Over the years, the Chico recruiting team has played an essential role in sustaining the Army’s strength by connecting motivated individuals from Chico and surrounding areas with opportunities for service and career development.

The 40th Transportation Company was originally activated during World War II to provide crucial logistical and transportation support to U.S. Army operations in various theaters of war. Over the decades, the unit has participated in multiple conflicts, including the Korean War and the Vietnam War, where it was instrumental in moving personnel, equipment, and supplies under challenging conditions. In more recent years, the 40th Transportation Company has supported operations in the Middle East, ensuring the mobility and sustainment of U.S. and allied forces. The unit is recognized for its adaptability, professionalism, and vital contributions to the success of numerous military missions worldwide.

The 66th Transportation Company was originally constituted and activated during World War II, providing crucial logistical and transportation support to U.S. Army operations in the European Theater. Over the decades, the unit has been reactivated and inactivated several times, adapting to the evolving needs of the Army. The company played significant roles in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, where it facilitated the rapid movement of troops, equipment, and supplies under challenging conditions. In more recent years, the 66th Transportation Company has supported operations in the Middle East, demonstrating its enduring commitment to excellence in military transportation and logistics.

2ND ACR

U.S. Army

The 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (2ND ACR), now known as the 2nd Cavalry Regiment, is a storied unit of the United States Army with origins dating back to 1836. Originally formed as the 2nd Regiment of Dragoons, it has served in numerous conflicts, including the Mexican-American War, Civil War, Indian Wars, World War I, World War II, the Cold War, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. During the Cold War, the 2ND ACR was renowned for its role as a border security force along the Iron Curtain, particularly in Germany. The regiment continues to serve as a Stryker Brigade Combat Team, maintaining its legacy of reconnaissance and cavalry excellence.

1st Cavalry Division

U.S. Army

The 1st Cavalry Division is a combined arms division of the United States Army, based in Fort Hood, Texas. It is one of the most famous and decorated divisions in the Army, with a history dating back to its activation in 1921. The division has seen combat in World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, and most recently in Iraq and Afghanistan. Known for its unparalleled speed and mobility, the 1st Cavalry Division is a highly trained and versatile fighting force.