Orange County Register (California) March 28, 2003
War With Iraq // Home Front
The 4th Infantry Division, which has begun deploying to Iraq, is believed to be the Army's most lethal weapon. It was the first division to be equipped with digital communications systems and new weapons systems and equipment. A closer look:
To hear the 4th Infantry Division march, see this story online at http://www.ocregister.com/ .
Sources: U.S. Army, globalsecurity.org
History, campaigns
Formed in December 1917. Nicknamed ''Ivy'' division, play on Roman numeral IV. Ivy leaves symbolic of tenacity, fidelity, basis of division's motto, ''Steadfast and Loyal.'' Has fought in World War I, World War II -- first allied unit to assault German forces on Normandy Coast -- and Vietnam, where it participated in 11 major campaigns in five years.
After Vietnam War, settled at Fort Carson, Colo. Reorganized as mechanized unit to increase mobility. Nickname changed to ''Ironhorse'' to recognize division's readiness for worldwide deployment. Based at Fort Hood, Texas, since 1995, with some troops still at Fort Carson.
Force
Organized into five brigade-sized elements: three maneuver brigades, a combat-aviation brigade, division artillery and division support command.
Authorized strength: 16,700
Equipment
M1A2 Abrams main battle tanks
M2A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicles
M270A1 multiple launch rocket systems
M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzers
M6 Bradley Linebackers
Avenger air defense systems
M9 armored combat earthmovers
Tactical unmanned aerial vehicles
GRAPHIC: Weapons: Avenger air defense system on Humvee. // M2A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle
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