Steven Ward

82nd Airborne

U.S. Army

The 82nd Airborne Division is a specialized infantry division of the United States Army. It is known for its rapid deployment capability and ability to conduct airborne operations. The division has a long and storied history, playing a crucial role in World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada, Operation Just Cause in Panama, the Gulf War, and more recently in Iraq and Afghanistan. The 82nd Airborne Division is based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and remains one of the most highly trained and ready divisions in the U.S. Army.

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment (HHC, 1/508th), is a distinguished unit within the 82nd Airborne Division. The 508th was originally activated in 1942 during World War II, participating in major operations such as D-Day in Normandy and Operation Market Garden. After periods of inactivation and reactivation, the 1st Battalion was reassigned to the 82nd Airborne Division, where it has since continued to serve with distinction. In recent decades, HHC 1/508th has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, maintaining its reputation for excellence as an elite airborne infantry unit.