Thomas Howes

7th Infantry Division

U.S. Army

The 7th Infantry Division is a unit of the United States Army based out of Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington. It was first activated in 1917 during World War I and has since participated in numerous conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Iraq War. The division is known for its iconic Indian head patch and motto of "Bayonet Division." Today, the 7th Infantry Division remains a key element of the US Army's force structure and is ready to deploy in support of national security objectives.

The United States Army Experimental Cavalry (USAECAV) was established in the early 21st century to test and develop advanced reconnaissance and rapid-response tactics for modern battlefields. Drawing on both traditional cavalry principles and cutting-edge technology, USAECAV integrated unmanned systems, lightweight armored vehicles, and networked communications into its doctrine. The unit participated in several joint exercises and operational deployments, providing invaluable feedback on the integration of new mobility and surveillance assets. USAECAV’s innovations significantly influenced the evolution of U.S. Army reconnaissance and cavalry units in the decades that followed.

The 177th Armor traces its origins to the Michigan National Guard, with roots dating back to the early 20th century. Officially designated as the 177th Armor Regiment in 1959 during the Army's reorganization under the Combat Arms Regimental System, the unit has served primarily as a tank battalion within the 38th Infantry Division. Over the decades, the 177th Armor has participated in numerous training exercises and mobilizations, supporting both state and federal missions. Its legacy is marked by a tradition of excellence in armored warfare and a steadfast commitment to the defense of both Michigan and the nation.

The 3rd Signal Brigade was activated in 1964 at Fort Hood, Texas, as part of the U.S. Army's growing need for advanced communications support during the Cold War. The brigade provided vital signal and information systems, supporting III Corps and U.S. Army operations both at home and during overseas missions, including deployments in support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991. Throughout its history, the 3rd Signal Brigade was recognized for its technical innovation and commitment to mission readiness. The unit was inactivated in April 2007, with its lineage and mission integrated into other Army signal commands.

The XVIII Airborne Corps, known as "America’s Contingency Corps," was activated in 1942 during World War II and played a pivotal role in major campaigns including the Normandy invasion and Operation Market Garden. Headquartered at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), North Carolina, the Corps has served as the U.S. Army’s primary strategic response force, specializing in rapid deployment and airborne operations. Throughout the Cold War, the XVIII Airborne Corps maintained a high state of readiness, and since then has been central to operations in Panama, the Gulf War, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Today, it continues to provide command and control for Army forces worldwide, embodying agility and combat power for joint and combined operations.

The Pershing Missile crewman served as a vital member of the U.S. Army’s field artillery units responsible for operating the Pershing missile system during the Cold War. Introduced in the early 1960s, Pershing missiles were nuclear-capable, solid-fueled ballistic missiles deployed primarily in West Germany to deter Soviet aggression. Crewmen were rigorously trained in missile assembly, maintenance, launch procedures, and security protocols, often working under high-alert conditions. Their mission was pivotal in NATO’s strategy of flexible response, and their role concluded with the signing of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 1987, which led to the elimination of Pershing missiles by 1991.