About this Unit
The 35th Supply and Service Battalion (35th S&S Battalion) was a key logistics unit of the United States Army, originally constituted during the Vietnam War. Activated in 1966, the battalion provided essential supply, maintenance, and field services support to combat units, primarily operating in the central region of South Vietnam. Its mission included managing supply depots, distributing food, fuel, and ammunition, and maintaining equipment for U.S. and allied forces. The 35th S&S Battalion earned several commendations for its vital support role before its inactivation following the drawdown of U.S. involvement in Vietnam.
Historical Facts
• Origins in WWII: The 35th Supply and Service Battalion (35th S&S) was originally constituted during World War II, playing a vital logistics role in supporting US and Allied operations.
• Vietnam War Service: The battalion was reactivated and deployed to Vietnam, where it supported U.S. forces with supply, maintenance, and transportation from 1966 to 1972.
• Nicknamed "The Red Ball Express": The unit's logistics prowess earned it the unofficial nickname "The Red Ball Express," referencing the famous supply convoy system of WWII.
• Massive Supply Operations: During its Vietnam service, the 35th S&S Battalion managed depots and distributed millions of tons of supplies, including food, ammunition, and fuel, under challenging combat conditions.
• Award-Winning Unit: The battalion received multiple unit commendations for exceptional service, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.
• Innovative Water Purification: The 35th S&S Battalion pioneered the use of mobile water purification units in Vietnam, ensuring clean water for thousands of troops in the field.
• Symbolic Insignia: The unit’s distinctive insignia features a "wheel and wing" motif, symbolizing mobility and logistics support, and is still worn by alumni with pride.
• Post-Vietnam Missions: After Vietnam, the battalion supported Operation New Life, aiding in the resettlement of Vietnamese refugees at US bases in 1975.
• Modern Deployments: Elements of the 35th S&S lineage have supported operations in the Middle East, including missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, under reorganized logistics commands.
• Veteran Community: The 35th S&S Battalion maintains a strong community of veterans who hold reunions, share stories, and preserve the unit's legacy through oral histories and digital archives.
