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History of 4th Infantry Division Co C Airborne Alaska

The 4th Infantry Division Company C (Airborne), Alaska, traces its roots to the storied 4th Infantry Division, renowned for its service in major conflicts such as World War II, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism. Company C, designated as an airborne unit, was stationed in Alaska to provide rapid deployment capabilities and support Arctic operations, leveraging airborne tactics for mobility in challenging terrain. Throughout its service, the unit participated in joint training exercises with allied nations and contributed to the defense of the U.S. northern frontier. The combination of airborne expertise and Arctic readiness made Company C a key asset in projecting power and ensuring security in the strategically vital region of Alaska.

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ABOUT 4th Infantry Division Co C Airborne Alaska

  • Arctic Pioneers: Company C, 4th Infantry Division (Airborne), Alaska, was among the few U.S. Army airborne units trained specifically for Arctic warfare, conducting operations and exercises in the extreme cold and challenging terrain of Alaska.
  • “Geronimo!”: Members of Co C often trained with the 509th Parachute Infantry Battalion, using the famous airborne jump cry "Geronimo!" during their Arctic jumps.
  • Operation Arctic Night: In the 1950s, the unit participated in Operation Arctic Night, one of the earliest large-scale paratrooper drops above the Arctic Circle, testing both equipment and human endurance.
  • Unique Insignia: The soldiers wore a distinct “Arctic Tab” above their airborne patch, signifying their specialty in cold-weather operations.
  • Experimental Gear: Co C helped test and develop specialized cold-weather parachuting and survival gear, including insulated jump suits and modified T-10 parachutes.
  • Strategic Role: During the early Cold War, the unit was tasked with defending Alaska as a potential frontline against Soviet incursions across the polar region.
  • Joint Training: They frequently conducted joint exercises with Canadian Rangers and Royal Canadian Airborne Regiment, fostering US-Canada military cooperation in the North.
  • Rescue Missions: Co C Airborne was called upon for several high-risk search and rescue missions in Alaska’s rugged wilderness, saving stranded civilians and downed aircrews.
  • All-Volunteer: Assignment to Company C was all-volunteer due to the harsh conditions, and its members were considered elite within the division.
  • Legacy: The experience and lessons learned by Co C influenced later U.S. Army cold-weather and airborne doctrine, contributing to the development of today’s Northern Warfare Training Center.

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