With its motto and nickname "Heart of the Rock," the 3rd Sustainment Brigade acknowledges its close ties to the 3rd Infantry Divsion--the "Rock of the Marne." From its 1957 inception, the mission of the brigade has always been providing the 3rd Infantry with the logistical support necessary for victory.
Originally designated as a "Division Train," the unit merged with the 3rd Infantry Division Band from 1963 until 1972, when it was reorganized and redesginated as 3rd Infantry Division Support Command. During the Cold War years preceding the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990, the brigade was stationed in Germany along with the 3rd Infantry.
As 3rd Division Support Command, the unit deployed to Southwest Asia in anticipation of a likely invasion of Iraq, and along with the 3rd Infantry Division was part of the spearhead of the assault that quickly pierced Iraqi defenses and captured Baghdad. The unit stayed in Baghdad for several months in support of the 3rd Infantry's counterinsurgency actions and infrastructure work, returning its home base of Fort Stewart in August, 2003. For its performance during this action, the brigade was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation.
Over the next ten years, the 3rd Sustainment Brigade was sent to Southwest Asia five more times, including a November 2012 deployment to Afghanistan in support Operation Enduring Freedom and participation in Operation Inherent Resolve against the Islamic State. In addition to operational support, the personnel of the brigade--who comprise scores of occupational specialties--place considerable importance on support for military families.
The white and blue stripes that form the basis of the unit's CSIB (Combat Service Identification Badge) are inspired by the CSIB of the 3rd Infantry Division. Three arrowheads signify not only the brigade's numerical designation, but also enthusiasm and action. Dragons are associated with the qualities of vigilance and requisite power, and is also found on the brigade's Unit Crest.
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3rd Sustainment Brigade Unit Crest (DUI)
3rd Sustainment Brigade Patch (SSI)