196th Light Infantry Brigade Assn

The 196th Association is registered with the Department of the Army as the only official organization recognized to represent the former members of the 196th. The Association is non-profit and non-political, with its main purpose being to promote camaraderie between former soldiers of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade. It accomplishes this aim through the publication of a semi-annual newsletter, maintenance of a computerized locator service, and the organization of the national reunions. The Association also supports hospitality services at veteran functions and "Shows the Colors" wherever possible. The 196th Brigade was an active Army unit from 1965 to 1972. As many as 20,000 soldiers served in its ranks during this period. Its assignment was Vietnam service, and it was the last combat unit to leave that country. The Brigade was decommissioned upon its return to the States. The Brigade suffered more than 1200 Killed-In-Action, and many more wounded, during its years of combat duty. It is to their memory and help that we are pledged. The Brigade was reactivated 26 May 1998 during a ceremony at Ft. Shafter, Hawaii. The new 196th works with Reserve Component units in Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, American Samoa, and Japan, to assist these units in staying trained and ready at all times.