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History of 4th FSB

The 4th Forward Support Battalion (4th FSB) was a key logistics unit within the U.S. Army, originally assigned to the 4th Infantry Division. Activated in the post-Vietnam era, the 4th FSB provided vital supply, maintenance, and medical support to brigade combat teams, ensuring operational readiness and sustainment during both training and combat deployments. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, the 4th FSB played a critical role in supporting maneuver units by enabling rapid logistics and battlefield sustainment operations. The unit was eventually reorganized and redesignated in line with Army modular transformation initiatives, continuing its legacy of support under a new structure.

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ABOUT 4th FSB

  • Origins: The 4th Forward Support Battalion (FSB), also known as the "Packhorse," was originally constituted in 1963 as the 4th Supply and Transport Battalion, providing crucial logistics for the 4th Infantry Division.
  • Vietnam War Service: The 4th FSB deployed to Vietnam in 1966, supporting combat operations in the Central Highlands and earning multiple campaign streamers for their service.
  • Nickname: The unit's nickname, "Packhorse," symbolizes their vital role in carrying supplies and support for the division, much like pack animals did for armies of the past.
  • Unit Insignia: The 4th FSB’s distinctive unit insignia features a gold mule shoe, reflecting their logistical mission, and a four-leaf clover, representing their division’s number.
  • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The battalion was deployed to Iraq in the early 2000s, where they provided life-sustaining logistics, maintenance, and medical support for combat operations.
  • Redesignation: In 2005, during the Army’s transformation to modular brigades, the 4th FSB was reorganized and redesignated as the 704th Brigade Support Battalion (BSB).
  • Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, the 4th FSB has participated in numerous humanitarian and disaster relief operations, providing aid and logistics in times of crisis.
  • Decorations: The battalion has received multiple unit awards, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation, for exceptional service during both wartime and peacetime operations.
  • Women in the Ranks: The 4th FSB was among the early Army units to integrate women into critical logistics and maintenance roles, reflecting broader changes in military policy.
  • Legacy: Alumni of the 4th FSB have gone on to serve in senior logistics and command positions throughout the Army, carrying forward the unit’s tradition of excellence.

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