History of the Army's 12th Brigade

Assault helicopters flying in formation

The 12th Combat Aviation Brigade was and is a combat and support aviation battle group that has attained celebrity for gallantry and service in Vietnam all the way through to Afghanistan.

Birth of an Aviation Brigade

Providing combat support

Originally known as 12th Aviation Group, it was created on June 18, 1965 at Fort Benning, Georgia. Two months after its creation it deployed to Vietnam. Before its departure in 1973 it was awarded numerous unit citations for its service.

From Germany to Iraq

Peace-keeping tool

In 1979 the brigade deployed to Wiesbaden, Germany, to control and command aviation units for the V-CORPS area of operation. In 1987 the brigade was renamed the 12th Aviation Brigade. In 1990 it deployed to Southwest Asia for operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Provide Comfort.

Bosnia to Present Day

Carrying cargo to soldiers

In 1995 the brigade deployed personnel to Hungary and Bosnia during Joint Endeavor and Joint Guard. From 1999 to 2001, the brigade aided NATO during task forces Hawk and Falcon in the European theater. In 2005 the brigade deployed to Afghanistan for "Enduring Freedom," and also aided Pakistan in humanitarian relief operations. It was renamed the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade in 2006. The next year it served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The brigade now resides in Bavaria as of 2010. Its motto is Winged Victory.

References

• Statistical Information
• Command Structure

Resources

• Analysis of Air-Combat Campaign; Dr. Albert Atkins