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History of 1st Armored Division

The 1st Armored Division is a division of the United States Army, based at Fort Bliss, Texas. It is a combined arms division with a proud history of serving in World War II, the Gulf War, and multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. The division's primary mission is to provide prompt, sustained, combined arms capability to the US Army in a variety of operational environments. It is known for its distinctive insignia, the "Old Ironsides," and for its motto, "Iron Soldiers."

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ABOUT 1st Armored Division

  • The 1st Armored Division was activated on July 15, 1940 at Fort Knox, Kentucky.
  • During World War II, the division participated in the North African Campaign, the Italian Campaign, and the liberation of France.
  • The 1st Armored Division was the first American unit to engage in tank combat in North Africa against the German Afrika Korps.
  • The division's nickname is "Old Ironsides" and its insignia features a red, white, and blue diagonal stripe.
  • In 1991, the 1st Armored Division played a key role in Operation Desert Storm, helping to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi forces.
  • The division was stationed in Germany for over 40 years during the Cold War, serving as a deterrent to Soviet aggression.
  • The 1st Armored Division has been deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
  • The division's motto is "Iron Soldiers" and its soldiers are known for their professionalism and combat effectiveness.
  • The 1st Armored Division is headquartered at Fort Bliss, Texas and is one of the most storied and historic units in the U.S. Army.
  • The division has received numerous awards and citations for its service, including several Presidential Unit Citations and Meritorious Unit Commendations.

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