About this Unit
The 136th Light Maintenance Company was a support unit within the United States Army, originally activated during World War II to provide essential maintenance and repair services for frontline equipment. Throughout its service, the company was tasked with maintaining vehicles, weapons, and other vital machinery, ensuring operational readiness for combat units. During major conflicts such as World War II and the Korean War, the 136th played a crucial role in keeping military assets functional under challenging conditions. Over time, the company underwent several reorganizations and redesignations as the Army's logistical structure evolved, reflecting changing technologies and operational requirements.
Historical Facts
• Origins in World War II: The 136th Light Maintenance Company traces its lineage to World War II, where such units provided essential repair and maintenance support for front-line forces in Europe and the Pacific.
• Role in the Korean War: The company or its predecessors contributed to the logistical backbone of U.S. forces during the Korean War, ensuring vehicles and equipment remained operational in harsh conditions.
• Vietnam War Service: The 136th Light Maintenance Company was instrumental in maintaining vehicles, generators, and weapons for combat units operating in Vietnam’s challenging terrain.
• Gulf War Deployment: Members of the 136th were mobilized for Operation Desert Storm, helping to maintain the rapid mobility of coalition forces through expert repairs and supply management.
• National Guard Component: In recent decades, the 136th Light Maintenance Company has often served as a unit within the Army National Guard, providing critical support during both overseas deployments and domestic emergencies.
• Operation Iraqi Freedom: Deployed to Iraq, the 136th provided essential maintenance support for convoys and forward operating bases, helping to keep supply lines open.
• Hurricane Katrina Response: The company was activated for disaster relief during Hurricane Katrina, using its technical skills to restore infrastructure and aid recovery efforts.
• Advancements in Technology: The 136th has adapted over the years from maintaining World War II-era Jeeps and tanks to modern Humvees and MRAPs, staying at the forefront of military maintenance technology.
• Training and Readiness: The unit is known for its rigorous training programs in diagnostics, repair, supply chain management, and battlefield recovery, making it a model for other maintenance units.
• Community Involvement: Beyond combat roles, the 136th Light Maintenance Company has participated in community outreach, supporting veterans’ events, and mentoring local youth in technical skills.
