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History of 559th QuarterMaster Battalion

The 559th Quartermaster Battalion was constituted on 1 May 1936 in the Regular Army and activated on 1 June 1941 at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. During World War II, the battalion provided essential logistical and supply support to U.S. Army forces in the European Theater, ensuring troops received critical fuel, rations, and materials. After the war, the unit experienced several inactivations and reactivations, reflecting the changing needs of the Army. Today, the 559th Quartermaster Battalion continues its tradition of excellence, supporting operational readiness through its vital supply and logistics missions.

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ABOUT 559th QuarterMaster Battalion

  • World War II Origins: The 559th Quartermaster Battalion was first constituted on 25 May 1942 in the Army of the United States and activated on 1 June 1942 at Camp Gruber, Oklahoma.
  • European Theater Service: During World War II, the battalion served in the European Theater, providing vital supply and logistical support to U.S. forces.
  • Normandy Campaign: The 559th played a key role in supporting operations after the D-Day landings in Normandy, helping ensure troops had necessary food, fuel, and equipment.
  • Meritorious Unit Commendation: The battalion was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation for its performance in France during World War II.
  • Reactivation and Inactivation: The battalion has been inactivated and reactivated several times, reflecting changing Army needs throughout the decades.
  • Cold War Service: The 559th was reactivated during the Cold War and served in Europe, supporting U.S. Army Europe logistics operations, especially in Germany.
  • Petroleum Supply Mission: The unit specialized in the supply and distribution of petroleum products, an often overlooked but critical component of military success.
  • Operation Iraqi Freedom: Elements of the 559th Quartermaster Battalion deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing fuel and logistical services to coalition forces.
  • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion’s insignia features a blue background with a white and red chevron, symbolizing support and supply, and a gold wheel, denoting transportation and logistics.
  • Legacy of Support: Throughout its history, the 559th Quartermaster Battalion exemplified the motto "Support the Fight," ensuring that front-line soldiers had the resources needed to accomplish their missions.

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