About this Unit
B 3/63 was a U.S. Army unit stationed in Augsburg, Germany, during the Cold War. The designation typically refers to Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 63rd Armor Regiment, part of the 1st Infantry Division. The unit was responsible for armored warfare and played a key role in NATO’s forward defense strategy against potential Warsaw Pact aggression. Throughout their deployment in Augsburg, B 3/63 conducted regular training exercises and participated in joint maneuvers to maintain readiness and demonstrate the U.S. commitment to European security.
Historical Facts
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Unit Name and Designation: "B 3/63" refers to Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 63rd Armor Regiment, which was part of the U.S. Army units stationed in Augsburg, Germany during the Cold War era.
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Cold War Frontline: The unit was strategically positioned in Augsburg, Bavaria, to serve as a rapid response force against potential Warsaw Pact aggression, making it part of the NATO frontline defense.
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Armor Heritage: The 63rd Armor Regiment dates back to World War II and has a storied history, including combat in Europe during WWII and later service during the Cold War.
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Garrisoned at Reese Kaserne: B 3/63 was based at Reese Kaserne, one of Augsburg’s main U.S. Army installations, which hosted several armored and infantry units during the American military presence.
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Community Ties: The soldiers of B 3/63 were well integrated with the local Augsburg community, participating in joint events, parades, and fostering German-American relations.
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Training and Readiness: The unit regularly deployed to training areas such as Hohenfels and Grafenwöhr, where they honed their armored warfare skills and conducted live-fire exercises.
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Reforger Exercises: B 3/63 took part in REFORGER (Return of Forces to Germany) exercises, which were massive NATO drills designed to practice rapid reinforcement of Europe by U.S. forces.
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Distinctive Insignia: The 63rd Armor Regiment’s insignia was proudly worn by B 3/63 soldiers and featured a striking tank symbol, reflecting their armored lineage.
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End of an Era: With the end of the Cold War and the subsequent drawdown of U.S. forces in Europe, B 3/63 and its parent units were inactivated or relocated in the early 1990s.
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Veterans’ Legacy: Alumni of B 3/63 maintain connections through reunions and online groups, preserving the unit’s history and camaraderie long after their Augsburg service.
