HHC 1:39th Inf. Germany

• World War II Origins: The 39th Infantry Regiment, known as the "Fighting Falcons," was activated in 1917 and saw distinguished service in World War II, landing at Utah Beach on D-Day and pushing deep into France and Germany. • Cold War Deployment: After World War II, the 1st Battalion, 39th Infantry Regiment (1/39th Infantry) was stationed in West Germany during the Cold War, serving as part of the U.S. Army Europe’s forward defenses against the Warsaw Pact. • HHC Role: The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) of 1/39th Infantry provided essential command, control, and support functions for the battalion, coordinating operations, intelligence, logistics, and administration. • Stationed at Baumholder: The 1/39th Infantry, including HHC, was based at Smith Barracks in Baumholder, a key U.S. military garrison in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, throughout much of the Cold War. • Berlin Brigade Rotations: Elements of the 39th Infantry regularly participated in rotations to Berlin as part of the U.S. Berlin Brigade, demonstrating commitment to the defense of the isolated city during tense periods. • Reforger Exercises: The battalion took part in REFORGER (Return of Forces to Germany) exercises, showcasing rapid deployment and readiness to reinforce NATO allies in the event of conflict with the Soviet Union. • Motto and Insignia: The regiment’s motto is "Ducti Amore Patriae" ("Led by Love of Country"), and its insignia features a falcon grasping lightning bolts, symbolizing speed and striking power. • Gulf War Standby: During Operation Desert Storm, elements of the 8th Infantry Division—including the 1/39th Infantry—were on high alert and prepared for deployment, although not all units were sent to the Gulf. • Inactivation: Following the end of the Cold War and drawdown of U.S. forces in Europe, HHC 1/39th Infantry was inactivated in the early 1990s along with the rest of the 8th Infantry Division. • Legacy and Reflagging: The 39th Infantry Regiment’s history and lineage are preserved in modern units, and veterans of HHC 1/39th maintain active associations and reunions to this day, sharing stories and camaraderie from their service in Germany.