About this Unit
Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment (Airborne), known as "B CO 3/187th AIRBORNE INF," is a distinguished unit of the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division, also called the "Rakkasans." Originally activated during World War II, the 187th has participated in major conflicts including the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Bravo Company has earned a reputation for its airborne assault capabilities, rapid deployment, and valor in combat, often leading the way in critical operations. Throughout its storied history, the company has received numerous unit citations and honors for its bravery and effectiveness on the battlefield.
Historical Facts
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Historical Lineage: B Company, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, known as "Rakkasans," traces its roots back to the 187th Glider Infantry Regiment of World War II, later transitioning to airborne status.
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Korean War Airdrops: The 3/187th participated in the first and only combat parachute assaults of the Korean War, including the drops at Sukchon and Munsan-ni in 1950 and 1951.
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Vietnam Valor: B Company served with distinction in Vietnam, participating in major operations such as Operation Junction City (1967), the largest US airborne operation since World War II.
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Desert Storm: In 1991, the 3/187th was among the first units to breach Iraqi defenses during Operation Desert Storm, executing the longest air assault in history at that time.
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Global War on Terror: B Co 3/187th deployed multiple times to Afghanistan and Iraq, including significant roles in Operation Anaconda (Afghanistan, 2002) and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
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Rakkasan Nickname: "Rakkasan" is derived from the Japanese word for "parachute man," a unique moniker adopted during the regiment's occupation duty in Japan after World War II.
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Presidential Unit Citations: The 3/187th has earned numerous Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism, including for actions at Sukchon, Korea, and Dong Ap Bia ("Hamburger Hill"), Vietnam.
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Combat Distinctions: B Company soldiers have received dozens of valor awards, including Silver Stars and Distinguished Service Crosses, for individual acts of heroism in combat.
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Legacy of "Hamburger Hill": The battalion, including B Company, fought in the brutal Battle of Dong Ap Bia (Hamburger Hill) in May 1969, a defining moment in Vietnam War history.
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Current Role: Today, B Co 3/187th AIRBORNE INF is part of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), maintaining readiness for rapid deployment and global contingency missions.
