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History of 5:32nd Armored

The 5th Battalion, 32nd Armored Regiment (5/32nd Armored) traces its lineage to the historic 32nd Armored Regiment, originally constituted during World War II as part of the famed 3rd Armored Division. The battalion saw distinguished service in the European Theater, participating in major campaigns from Normandy through Central Europe, including the liberation of Paris and the Battle of the Bulge. After the war, 5/32nd Armored experienced several activations and inactivations, serving as a key armored force during the Cold War in Germany as part of NATO deterrence. Throughout its history, the unit has been recognized for its professionalism, adaptability, and valor in armored warfare.

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ABOUT 5:32nd Armored

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  • Origins in World War II: The 5th Battalion, 32nd Armor (5/32nd Armor) traces its roots back to World War II, where its parent regiment, the 32nd Armor, was activated as part of the famed 3rd Armored Division ("Spearhead Division").
  • Cold War Service: During the Cold War, 5/32nd Armor was stationed in West Germany, playing a key role in NATO's defense posture against the Warsaw Pact.
  • Berlin Brigade Assignment: The battalion was assigned to the Berlin Brigade from 1963 to 1984, acting as a key armored deterrent in the divided city at the frontline of the Cold War.
  • Patrolling the Berlin Wall: Members of 5/32nd Armor regularly patrolled the Berlin Wall, maintaining a visible U.S. armored presence just steps away from Soviet and East German forces.
  • Unique Camouflage: Tanks and vehicles of 5/32nd Armor in Berlin often sported unique urban camouflage schemes, tailored for operations in the city environment.
  • Operation Able Archer: The battalion participated in numerous exercises, including the tense Able Archer drills, which simulated NATO responses to potential Soviet aggression.
  • Reforger Exercises: 5/32nd Armor frequently took part in REFORGER ("Return of Forces to Germany") exercises, demonstrating rapid deployment and combat readiness.
  • Transition to M60 Tanks: The battalion transitioned from older Patton tanks to the more advanced M60A1 and later M60A3 main battle tanks during its Berlin service.
  • Deactivation and Legacy: The battalion was deactivated in 1984 as part of the reorganization of U.S. forces in Europe, but its legacy continues in the lineage of the 32nd Armor.
  • Spearhead Spirit: Veterans of 5/32nd Armor proudly maintain the "Spearhead" spirit, recalling their unique experiences as armored soldiers on the frontlines of the Cold War.
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