Hq CO Ft Wainwright AK

• Strategic Location: Headquarters Company (Hq CO) at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, is situated near Fairbanks and is a critical hub for U.S. Army operations in the Arctic and subarctic regions. • Home of the 11th Airborne Division: Fort Wainwright currently serves as the home base for the 11th Airborne Division, which focuses on rapid deployment and Arctic warfare, with Hq CO providing essential command and control support. • World War II Origins: The installation was originally established in 1939 as Ladd Field, primarily supporting cold-weather testing for military aircraft and equipment during World War II. • Cold War Role: During the Cold War, the base played a vital role in air defense and Arctic training, with Hq CO facilitating coordination of large-scale joint exercises with international partners. • Support for Joint Forces: Hq CO at Fort Wainwright coordinates not only Army units but also supports joint training with Air Force, National Guard, and allied forces. • Arctic Warriors: Units stationed at Fort Wainwright, including Hq CO, are known as "Arctic Warriors," trained for extreme weather, survival, and operations in some of the world's harshest environments. • Historic Long Marches: Soldiers from Hq CO and associated units have participated in historic long-distance marches and maneuvers, testing mobility and endurance in snow and ice. • Community Integration: Hq CO helps organize events and outreach programs, strengthening the bond between the military community and the city of Fairbanks. • Environmental Stewardship: The unit is involved in environmental protection initiatives, balancing training requirements with conservation of Alaska's unique ecosystems. • Notable Deployments: Personnel from Hq CO have supported missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, and humanitarian operations worldwide, demonstrating adaptability from Arctic to desert environments.