The Combat Arm of Decision: A History of the U.S. Army Armor Branch

In the annals of military history, mottos have always held a special place. They not only inspire and motivate the soldiers but also serve as a constant reminder of the principles and values that guide them. One such motto that has stood the test of time is that of the United States Army Armor Branch – "The Combat Arm of Decision." In this blog, we will delve into the origins and history of this powerful motto and explore its significance in shaping the U.S. Army Armor Branch's legacy.

A Brief History of the U.S. Army Armor Branch

The Armor Branch traces its roots back to the Revolutionary War, where cavalry units played an essential role in the Continental Army's success. However, it wasn't until the advent of mechanized warfare during World War I that the modern Armor Branch began to take shape. In 1917, the U.S. Army created the Tank Corps, which would later evolve into the Armor Branch. Initially, the Tank Corps was a part of the American Expeditionary Forces in Europe, serving under General John J. Pershing.

Lieutenant Colonel George S. Patton, pictured here in France, in the summer of 1918, standing in front of a French Renault tank.

The interwar years saw further development of armored warfare doctrine and the establishment of the Armored Force in 1940, merging infantry and cavalry tank units. During World War II, the U.S. Army's armored divisions played a critical role in the Allied victory, particularly in the European theater. The Armor Branch was officially established in 1950, consolidating the Armored Force into a single entity responsible for the development, training, and execution of armored warfare.

Origins and Evolution of the Armor Branch Motto

The Armor Branch motto, "The Combat Arm of Decision," was coined during the early years of World War II. It was a period when the effectiveness of armored units on the battlefield was becoming increasingly evident, particularly in the wake of successful German Blitzkrieg campaigns.

The motto highlights the decisive role that armored units play on the battlefield – their ability to strike quickly and decisively, changing the course of battles and even entire campaigns.

Throughout the years, the Armor Branch has evolved and adapted its strategies and tactics, but the motto has remained a constant source of inspiration and guidance. From the deserts of North Africa in World War II to the jungles of Vietnam and the mountains of Afghanistan, the Armor Branch's armored units have time and again lived up to their motto, proving themselves to be the "Combat Arm of Decision."

The Significance of the Armor Branch Motto

The U.S. Army Armor Branch motto carries deep meaning and serves as a reflection of the essential qualities and characteristics of armored units. Here are some key aspects of the motto and what it represents:

• Speed and Mobility: The motto underscores the importance of speed and mobility in modern warfare. Armored units are equipped with tanks and other vehicles that allow them to move rapidly across the battlefield, enabling them to exploit opportunities and strike where the enemy is most vulnerable.

• Flexibility: The "Combat Arm of Decision" motto also highlights the flexibility of armored units. They can be deployed in various roles, such as reconnaissance, offensive operations, or defensive maneuvers, making them highly adaptable to the ever-changing dynamics of the battlefield.

• Firepower: The motto reflects the immense firepower that armored units bring to the fight. With their heavily armed tanks and supporting infantry, armored units can deliver devastating blows to the enemy, often proving to be the decisive factor in battles.

• Shock Effect: The appearance of armored units on the battlefield can have a significant psychological impact on the enemy. The sheer might and power of tanks and other armored vehicles can demoralize enemy forces and make them more likely to retreat or surrender.

• Decisiveness: Above all, the motto emphasizes the decisive role that armored units play on the battlefield. They possess the unique ability to turn the tide of battles and campaigns, making them an invaluable asset to any military force.

Throughout its history, the Armor Branch has continually adapted and evolved its tactics, techniques, and technologies to maintain its status as the Combat Arm of Decision. The branch's emphasis on mobility, firepower, and protection has allowed it to maintain a decisive edge in conflicts ranging from the European theater of World War II to the deserts of the Middle East.

Today, the U.S. Army Armor Branch continues to embody the motto, The Combat Arm of Decision, as it operates some of the most advanced and formidable armored vehicles in the world. The M1 Abrams Main Battle Tank, the Stryker family of armored vehicles, and the Bradley Fighting Vehicle are just a few examples of the cutting-edge technology that allows the Armor Branch to maintain its status as a decisive force on the battlefield.