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History of 1st Light Armored Infantry BN

The 1st Light Armored Infantry Battalion (1st LAI BN), later redesignated as the 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion (1st LAR BN), was activated on May 19, 1985, at Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California. Designed to provide fast-moving, lightly armored reconnaissance and security for Marine Air-Ground Task Forces, the battalion was equipped with LAV-25 vehicles. The unit saw combat in major operations such as Operation Desert Storm in 1991, where it played a pivotal role in screening and reconnaissance during the rapid advance into Kuwait. Over the years, 1st LAI/1st LAR Battalion has participated in multiple deployments, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, maintaining a reputation for speed, flexibility, and effectiveness on the battlefield.

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ABOUT 1st Light Armored Infantry BN

  • Origins and Activation: The 1st Light Armored Infantry Battalion (1st LAI BN) was activated on 1 May 1985 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, as part of the post-Vietnam era restructuring and modernization of the Marine Corps’ capabilities.
  • First Combat Deployment: The battalion saw its first combat during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990–1991, playing a key role in the liberation of Kuwait by conducting reconnaissance and security missions ahead of main Marine Corps forces.
  • Pioneering Light Armored Vehicles: 1st LAI BN was among the first Marine units to field the LAV-25 (Light Armored Vehicle), a highly mobile, amphibious, eight-wheeled vehicle that became iconic for Marine reconnaissance and screening operations.
  • Name Change: In 1994, the battalion was redesignated as the 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion (1st LAR BN), reflecting a doctrinal shift to emphasize reconnaissance over infantry capabilities.
  • Somalia Operations: Elements of 1st LAI BN participated in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia (1992–1993), providing security and convoy escort in a challenging urban and rural environment.
  • Rapid Mobility: The battalion’s use of LAVs allowed it to cover hundreds of kilometers swiftly, making it one of the most rapidly deployable ground units in the Marine Corps.
  • Iraq War: 1st LAR BN played a crucial role in the initial 2003 invasion of Iraq, spearheading advances deep into enemy territory and securing key objectives ahead of main forces.
  • “First to Fight” Motto: The battalion is known for its motto “First to Fight,” reflecting its role as the tip of the spear in Marine Corps ground operations.
  • Technology and Innovation: Over the years, 1st LAI/1st LAR has been a testbed for new tactics, communications equipment, and integration of unmanned systems alongside traditional armored vehicles.
  • Distinguished Alumni: Many former battalion members have gone on to serve with distinction in higher leadership roles within the Marine Corps, and the unit holds a strong tradition of camaraderie and esprit de corps among its veterans.

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