82nd Airborne Division Afghanistan Operation Enduring Freedom Patch

In June 2002, elements of the Division Headquarters and 3rd Brigade (505th Parachute Infantry Regiment) deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In January, 2003 1st Brigade relieved 3rd Brigade, and continued the Division's support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During 1st Brigade's tour in Afghanistan, 70 soldiers from B Company, 3rd Battalion, 504th Infantry in conjunction with A Company, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger, conducted a combat jump into western Afghanistan. This was the first combat jump for the division since the United States invasion of Panama in 1989, but was uncelebrated as it remained classified for over a year.

In late September 2004 The National Command Authority alerted 1/505 PIR for an emergency deployment to Afghanistan in support of the elections scheduled for October. Two infantry battalions from the 82nd Airborne deployed to Iraq before the scheduled October 15 referendum on the proposed constitution, and are expected to remain through the December national elections. The battalions involved are the 2nd Battalion of the 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment and the 3rd Battalion of the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment.

The First Brigade of the 82nd Airborne deployed to Afghanstan in April of 2005 in support of OEF 6, and returned in April of 2006.

Our 82nd Airborne Division Operation Enduring Freedom Patch is a 4 inch, full color, 100% embroidered military patch. This patch would be a great gift idea and a wonderful addition to your patch collection.