The 173rd Airborne Brigade is a United States Army airborne infantry brigade formed on 12 June 1917 at Camp Devens, Massachusetts. It is one of the oldest airborne units in the United States Army and has a rich history of service and combat operations.
A WORLD AT WAR
During World War I, the 173rd was part of the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) and served in France as part of the 87th Division. The brigade saw its first combat in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, where they were tasked with capturing the heavily fortified town of Cunel. Despite being heavily outnumbered and facing fierce resistance, the 173rd captured the town and secured the objective.
Following World War I, the 173rd was demobilized but was reactivated in 1942 as part of the United States Army's airborne division. The brigade saw extensive combat in World War II, participating in numerous campaigns in Italy, France, and Germany. The 173rd was instrumental in capturing the Italian island of Anzio and also played a crucial role in the liberation of the French town of Sainte-Mère-Église, the first town in France to be liberated by the Allies
THE VIETNAM WAR
After World War II, the 173rd was again demobilized but was reactivated in 1963 as part of the Army's rapid deployment forces. In 1965, the brigade deployed to Vietnam as part of Operation Rolling Thunder and was based out of Bien Hoa Air Base. During its time in Vietnam, the 173rd was involved in numerous combat operations, including the Battle of Dak To, where the brigade fought against the North Vietnamese Army and suffered heavy casualties.
In the years following the Vietnam War, the 173rd has continued to serve in various roles, including peacekeeping operations in Kosovo and Iraq. In 2003, the brigade deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and was based out of Camp Warhorse in Baqubah. In addition, the 173rd was involved in many significant combat operations, including the Battle of Mosul and the Battle of Fallujah.
MODERN SKY SOLDIERS
Today, the 173rd continues to serve as an important part of the United States Army, focusing on rapid deployment and combat operations. The brigade is based out of Vicenza, Italy, and is part of the United States Army Europe. The 173rd remains one of the most decorated units in the Army and continues to be a vital component of American military power.
Throughout its history, the 173rd Airborne Brigade has proven to be a highly effective and capable force in combat operations. The brigade's ability to rapidly deploy and engage in combat has made it an essential asset for the United States Army in both World War I and II and in more recent conflicts such as Vietnam and Iraq.
THE LEGACY OF THE HERD
The bravery and determination of the 173rd's soldiers have been demonstrated time and time again as they have fought against some of the most formidable enemies in history. From the trenches of World War I to the mountains of Vietnam, the 173rd has always been ready to face whatever challenges may come their way.
The legacy of the 173rd Airborne Brigade is one of courage, determination, and sacrifice. Its soldiers have served their country with honor and distinction and continue to do so today. The 173rd is a true testament to the strength and resilience of the United States Army and its prestigious Airborne soldiers. It continues to be a vital component of American military power.
DID YOU KNOW?
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The name “Sky Soldiers” is a nickname given to the 173rd parachutists by the Taiwanese locals during their exercises in Taiwan. Also, the term “Flying Butter Knives” was used to describe the unit’s shoulder patch
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The 173rd Airborne Brigade was one of the first units deployed to Vietnam. They were also the first American unit to fight in the Battle of Dak To, where they suffered heavy casualties fighting heroically for their country.
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The 173rd was part of Operation Junction City, the only major conventional airborne operation during the war in Vietnam.
