HHC 172nd Infantry Brigade Fort Wainwright, Alaska

• Origins in World War II: The 172nd Infantry Brigade traces its lineage back to World War II, first being activated in 1943 and participating in the Aleutian Islands Campaign. • Arctic Warriors: Stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, the brigade earned the nickname "Arctic Warriors" for its specialized training and operations in extreme cold weather conditions. • HHC's Role: The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) provided command, control, and administrative support to the entire brigade—a vital function in demanding Arctic environments. • Cold Weather Innovations: Soldiers in the brigade pioneered cold weather survival techniques and equipment, influencing U.S. Army doctrine for Arctic warfare. • Deployment to Iraq: In 2005, the 172nd Infantry Brigade was deployed to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom, with its deployment extended to 16 months—the longest for a U.S. Army unit since World War II. • Historic Stryker Brigade: The 172nd was among the first U.S. Army units equipped with Stryker armored vehicles, modernizing its mobility and firepower. • Reflagging and Inactivation: The brigade was reflagged as the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division in December 2006, marking the end of its designation as the 172nd Infantry Brigade at Fort Wainwright. • Unique Training Missions: The unit participated in joint exercises with Canadian and other allied forces, enhancing interoperability in Arctic and sub-Arctic operations. • Community Ties: Soldiers from HHC 172nd regularly participated in community events in Fairbanks and surrounding areas, strengthening military-civilian relationships in Alaska. • Legacy of Excellence: The 172nd Infantry Brigade earned multiple unit citations and commendations for its service, reflecting a legacy of resilience and adaptability in some of the world’s harshest environments.