About this Unit
The 4th Support and Transportation (S&T) Battalion has a distinguished history of providing vital logistical and transportation support to its parent brigade within the U.S. Army. Activated in the mid-20th century, the battalion has supported numerous operations, from large-scale deployments during the Cold War era to contingency operations in the Middle East. Throughout its service, the 4th S&T Battalion has been recognized for its adaptability and efficiency in sustaining combat and humanitarian missions. Its soldiers continue to uphold a proud tradition of excellence, ensuring the mobility and readiness of their supported units.
Historical Facts
• Origins: The 4th Supply and Transportation (S&T) Battalion was originally constituted as part of the 4th Infantry Division, providing essential logistics and support functions since the division’s early years.
• Vietnam War Service: The 4th S&T Battalion deployed to Vietnam in 1966, supporting the 4th Infantry Division with supply, transportation, and maintenance operations throughout the Central Highlands.
• Motto: The battalion’s motto, “Service Above Self,” exemplifies its commitment to ensuring frontline troops received what they needed, when they needed it, often under fire.
• Convoy Operations: During the Vietnam War, the battalion executed perilous convoy missions, frequently facing ambushes and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) along critical supply routes like Highway 19.
• Innovative Engineering: The unit was known for improvising and repairing vehicles and equipment in the field, sometimes fashioning replacement parts from salvaged materials to keep supply lines open.
• Decorations: The 4th S&T Battalion received multiple unit commendations, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation, for outstanding service and dedication under hazardous conditions in Vietnam.
• Humanitarian Missions: Besides combat logistics, the unit participated in humanitarian assistance missions, delivering food, medical supplies, and building materials to local Vietnamese villages.
• Cold War Deployments: After Vietnam, the battalion continued supporting the 4th Infantry Division during Cold War deployments, enhancing NATO readiness in Europe.
• Transition to Modern Logistics: The battalion evolved with the Army’s logistics modernization, integrating computer-based supply systems and advanced vehicle fleets before its eventual reorganization.
• Legacy: Although the original 4th S&T Battalion was inactivated and reorganized as part of Army force structure changes, its legacy endures in the 4th Infantry Division’s current sustainment units, which continue the tradition of logistical excellence.
