Michael Kenna

1st Aviation

U.S. Army

The 1st Aviation is a military unit within the United States Army. It is responsible for conducting aviation operations in support of ground forces. The 1st Aviation has a long history dating back to World War I and has participated in numerous conflicts and peacekeeping missions around the world. The unit is known for its professionalism, dedication, and expertise in aviation operations.

The United States Army Recruiting Command (USAREC) was established in October 1964 to centralize and coordinate all Army recruiting activities nationwide. Headquartered at Fort Knox, Kentucky, USAREC is responsible for enlisting both officers and enlisted personnel into the Regular Army and Army Reserve. Over the decades, the command has adapted to changing recruiting environments, such as the transition to an all-volunteer force in 1973 and the integration of new technologies and outreach strategies. USAREC continues to play a vital role in maintaining the Army’s readiness by ensuring a steady flow of qualified recruits to meet the nation’s defense needs.

**BASIC CAMP** is an introductory military training program designed primarily for college students interested in joining the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) in the United States. Established to provide essential foundational skills, Basic Camp typically takes place during the summer at Fort Knox, Kentucky. The course covers basic soldiering skills, leadership development, and team-building exercises, preparing cadets who did not participate in ROTC during their first two college years to enter advanced ROTC training. Over the years, Basic Camp has played a vital role in commissioning well-prepared officers into the U.S. Army by instilling discipline, confidence, and core military values.

The 725th Maintenance Battalion was originally constituted on 26 August 1941 as the 725th Ordnance Light Maintenance Company and activated at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. The unit provided critical maintenance and logistical support for the 25th Infantry Division during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, ensuring operational readiness of vehicles and equipment. Over the decades, the battalion underwent several reorganizations, reflecting changes in Army structure and technology, and was redesignated as the 725th Support Battalion. Today, the unit continues its legacy of excellence as part of the 25th Infantry Division, supporting operations and deployments worldwide.

Yuma Proving Ground (YPG), located in southwestern Arizona, was established in 1943 as the U.S. Army's Camp Laguna and the Yuma Test Branch to support World War II training and testing operations. During the war, the area was used extensively to test combat vehicles, weapons, and equipment in harsh desert conditions. After the war, the facility evolved into one of the Army’s premier test centers, supporting research and development for artillery, munitions, and vehicle systems. Today, Yuma Proving Ground is a critical asset for the U.S. Army, conducting year-round testing of military hardware for all branches of the armed forces and allied nations.

The 9th Cavalry Regiment, known as one of the original "Buffalo Soldier" regiments, was formed in 1866 as part of the U.S. Army's expansion following the Civil War. Composed primarily of African American soldiers led by white officers, the regiment played a significant role in the Indian Wars, protecting settlers and building infrastructure in the American West. The 9th Cavalry later served with distinction in the Spanish-American War, the Philippine-American War, and both World Wars. Today, elements of the regiment continue to serve, carrying on a legacy of bravery and professionalism spanning more than 150 years.

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.