Co.C 4th 9th infantry, FT Wainwright AK

• Vietnam War Service: Company C, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry ("Manchu") saw extensive combat during the Vietnam War as part of the 25th Infantry Division, earning a reputation for resilience and bravery. • Distinctive Nickname: The battalion’s nickname, "Manchu," originates from the unit’s service during the Boxer Rebellion in China, referencing the Manchu Dynasty. • Alaska Stationing: The 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry was stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, during the Cold War as part of the 172nd Infantry Brigade (Separate), preparing for Arctic and mountain warfare. • Arctic Training: Soldiers of Co. C, 4th 9th Infantry trained extensively in subzero temperatures, conducting live-fire exercises and survival training in the challenging Alaskan wilderness. • Operation Snow Hawk: The company participated in "Operation Snow Hawk," a large-scale winter exercise designed to test combat readiness in extreme cold and snow conditions. • Reflagging and Lineage: The unit’s lineage traces back to 1850, with multiple activations, inactivations, and reflagging, reflecting the Army’s evolving structure and mission requirements. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The "Manchu" crest features a Chinese dragon, symbolizing the unit’s service in China and its fierce fighting spirit. • Community Engagement: While stationed at Ft. Wainwright, Company C regularly participated in local community events, including winter festivals and joint training with the Alaska National Guard. • Deployment Stories: Members of Co. C, 4th 9th Infantry have recounted challenging patrols and exercises where temperatures dipped below -40°F, testing their endurance and equipment to the limit. • Legacy and Honors: The 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry is one of the most decorated infantry battalions in the U.S. Army, with battle honors from the Civil War, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and Cold War-Alaska service.