The United States Army is a fascinating and rich organization full of intriguing facts, figures, and accomplishments that often leave people in awe. Here we will discuss some of the most mind-blowing trivia about the US Army you didn’t know, from the formation of the first American Airborne unit to military bases all around the world.
History
The US Army traces its roots all the way back to June 14, 1775 when the Continental Congress established the Continental Army. Over the course of the past two centuries, the US Army has drastically changed in size, scope, and ambition. From the War of 1812 to the Civil War to World Wars I and II, the US Army has served a crucial role in defending the nation’s freedom and advancing its cause around the world.
Today, the US Army is the largest branch of the military and is responsible for defending the United States and its interests abroad. The US Army also participates in a variety of international peacekeeping operations, such as the recent deployment of US forces to the Korean Peninsula for exercises.
Airborne Force
The US Army was the first to form an Airborne Division in 1940, with the 425 Parachute Infantry Regiment as the lead unit. This was the start of a legendary military unit, which took part in some of the most dangerous and renowned operations of World War II, such as Operation Market Garden in Holland and the Battle of the Bulge in 1945.
In the years since, US Army Airborne units have continued to serve a vital role in the US military’s operations. From the Vietnam War to the Gulf War, US Army Airborne units have been involved in some of the most intense combat operations of the modern era.
Military Bases
Due to its international reach and its commitment to global peace and security, the US military runs bases in over 40 countries around the world. From Europe to the Pacific to Africa, US Army bases serve as forward operating bases and hubs of military support.
Some of the most well-known US Army bases around the world include the Erbil Air Base in Iraq, Camp Humphreys in South Korea, and Fort Campbell in Kentucky. These bases may be thousands of miles apart, but they are all connected by their unwavering commitment to the defense of the United States and its interests abroad.
Major Conflicts
Throughout its storied history, the US Army has seen its share of conflict, from the Revolutionary War to its current operations in Afghanistan. Although there have been many major conflicts throughout US history, the US Army has faced its most intense combat operations in World War II and the Vietnam War.
During the Second World War, US forces played a vital role in the Allied victory over Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan. Moreover, US forces significantly contributed to the bitter and difficult war in Vietnam, engaging in some of the longest and most brutal battles of the conflict.
Equipment
The US Army is a force to be reckoned with, due in part to its highly advanced equipment and weapons. From fighter jets to attack helicopters to tanks, US forces possess some of the most advanced military technology in the world.
Some of the US Army’s most iconic pieces of equipment include the M1 Abrams main battle tank, the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter, and the M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle. All of these pieces of equipment have served the US Army faithfully in times of war and peace, helping to ensure the defense of the nation.
Women
The US Army is one of the few institutions in the world that has opened its doors to women since its inception. Although women technically began serving in the US Army as early as the Revolutionary War, it wasn’t until 1948 that Congress passed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which allowed for women to enlist in all branches of the US military.
Since then, women have continued to break down barriers and advance in the US military at an impressive rate. In 2017, the US Army’s first female infantryman graduated from its rigorous Basic Combat Training course, while in 2018 a record number of women completed the US Army’s grueling Ranger School training program.
Awards and Honors
The US Army has bestowed numerous awards and honors on its soldiers throughout history, including the Medal of Honor, the highest award for bravery and selfless service.
What’s more, the US Army has several of its own unique awards, such as the Distinguished Service Cross and the Silver Star, which are awarded to soldiers who demonstrate heroic acts and outstanding leadership on the battlefield.
From its long and storied history to its commitment to modern warfare, the US Army is an impressive organization full of mind-blowing trivia that many may not know about. From the formation of the first Airborne unit to the awarding of numerous honors and awards, the US Army has proven time and time again why it is an international powerhouse and leader in the defense of freedom and justice around the world.
