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History of HHC 172nd Infantry Brigade Fort Wainwright, Alaska

The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 172nd Infantry Brigade, stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, played a significant role in U.S. Army operations during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Originally activated in 1963, the brigade’s primary mission was Arctic warfare and cold-weather operations, capitalizing on Alaska’s unique environment for training and readiness. HHC provided essential command, control, and support functions for the brigade, which deployed to Iraq in 2005-2006 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The 172nd Infantry Brigade earned recognition for its extended combat deployment and adaptability before being inactivated in 2006, with its legacy carried on by successor units in Alaska.

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ABOUT HHC 172nd Infantry Brigade Fort Wainwright, Alaska

  • Origins in World War II: The 172nd Infantry Brigade traces its lineage back to World War II, first being activated in 1943 and participating in the Aleutian Islands Campaign.
  • Arctic Warriors: Stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, the brigade earned the nickname "Arctic Warriors" for its specialized training and operations in extreme cold weather conditions.
  • HHC's Role: The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) provided command, control, and administrative support to the entire brigade—a vital function in demanding Arctic environments.
  • Cold Weather Innovations: Soldiers in the brigade pioneered cold weather survival techniques and equipment, influencing U.S. Army doctrine for Arctic warfare.
  • Deployment to Iraq: In 2005, the 172nd Infantry Brigade was deployed to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom, with its deployment extended to 16 months—the longest for a U.S. Army unit since World War II.
  • Historic Stryker Brigade: The 172nd was among the first U.S. Army units equipped with Stryker armored vehicles, modernizing its mobility and firepower.
  • Reflagging and Inactivation: The brigade was reflagged as the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division in December 2006, marking the end of its designation as the 172nd Infantry Brigade at Fort Wainwright.
  • Unique Training Missions: The unit participated in joint exercises with Canadian and other allied forces, enhancing interoperability in Arctic and sub-Arctic operations.
  • Community Ties: Soldiers from HHC 172nd regularly participated in community events in Fairbanks and surrounding areas, strengthening military-civilian relationships in Alaska.
  • Legacy of Excellence: The 172nd Infantry Brigade earned multiple unit citations and commendations for its service, reflecting a legacy of resilience and adaptability in some of the world’s harshest environments.

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