About this Unit
The Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Division Support Command, 2nd Armored Division (HHC DISCOM 2AD) was a key logistics and support unit of the famed 2nd Armored Division, also known as "Hell on Wheels." Activated during the Cold War era, HHC DISCOM 2AD was responsible for coordinating supply, maintenance, medical, and transportation services to ensure the division’s combat readiness. The unit played a vital role during major training exercises in Europe and supported operations such as Desert Storm, providing essential sustainment to front-line elements. Following the post-Cold War drawdown, HHC DISCOM 2AD was inactivated along with the 2nd Armored Division in 1995 at Fort Hood, Texas.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Meaning: HHC DISCOM 2AD stands for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Division Support Command, 2nd Armored Division. The 2nd Armored Division, known as "Hell on Wheels," was one of the U.S. Army's iconic armored divisions.
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World War II Service: The 2nd Armored Division was heavily involved in World War II, participating in the North African Campaign, the invasion of Sicily, the D-Day landings, and the push through France and into Germany. DISCOM units provided critical logistics and support.
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Cold War Deployments: During the Cold War, elements of HHC DISCOM 2AD were stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. commitment to NATO, supporting readiness and deterrence against the Warsaw Pact.
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Support Role: DISCOM was responsible for logistics, maintenance, medical, and supply operations—ensuring the division's combat units were supplied and ready for action.
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Operation Desert Storm: The 2nd Armored Division, including HHC DISCOM, deployed to the Middle East for the Gulf War in 1990-1991, providing vital support for combat operations.
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Historic Nickname: The 2AD's nickname, "Hell on Wheels," was earned for its speed and ferocity in battle—traits enabled by the effective support from units like HHC DISCOM.
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Decorations and Honors: The 2nd Armored Division received numerous unit citations and campaign streamers, with DISCOM elements sharing in these honors for their support roles.
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Famous Commanders: General George S. Patton was a notable commander of the 2nd Armored Division, shaping its aggressive and mobile doctrine.
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Unit Deactivation: The 2nd Armored Division was deactivated in the mid-1990s as part of post-Cold War drawdowns, and HHC DISCOM was inactivated along with it.
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Veteran Legacy: Veterans of HHC DISCOM 2AD continue to maintain strong bonds, with reunions and associations commemorating their unique role in military history.
