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Wolfpack Anniversary Reunion

Soldiers from Bravo Company 3/124th Infantry who were full time students at UWF at the time of Deployment in January 2003.

Soldiers from Bravo Co. 3/124th Infantry who were full time students at UWF at the time of Deployment in January 2003.

In December 2002, soldiers from Bravo Company (Wolfpack) of the 3rd Battalion (Warrior), 124th Infantry Regiment, Florida Army National Guard, received sudden orders to prepare for deployment to the Middle East. One hundred thirty-seven soldiers left behind their holiday celebrations to embark on the first overseas deployment of the Florida National Guard since World War II. They reported to Fort Stewart, Georgia, in January 2003 for mobilization training before heading to Kuwait to stage for direct combat operations in Baghdad. Their mission was to secure Baghdad in Zone 17, one of the highest risk areas of the City with high profile targets.

During their 13 month deployment, Bravo Company conducted over 310 raids (cordon and search operations), captured many highly valuable targets, and removed hundreds of bombs and weapons from the territory. Their unit faced numerous challenges, including shortages, dated equipment and personnel constraints. They conducted split-unit operations, operating with squad-sized patrols as the only Light Infantry company in the area. Despite these difficulties, they became known for their aggressive operations and played a crucial role in capturing wanted individuals and anti-coalition forces. The Wolfpack returned home with numerous awards including two Presidential unit citations and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

The soldiers of Bravo Company are now reuniting over Veterans Day weekend in Pensacola, two decades after their deployment, at the Pensacola Beach Hilton on Friday, November 10, 2023. Contributions to support this reunion are greatly appreciated. Funds collected will cover lodging and meals for the soldiers and their families, with any remaining funds donated to the University of West Florida to endow an Army ROTC scholarship in honor of the Wolfpack’s service in Iraq in 2003. Your support is crucial in making this reunion a meaningful and memorable event for these veterans. Contributions can be made through the button link below.

Support the Wolfpack Anniversary Reunion

For questions regarding donations, please contact Tori Bennett at 850.602.8556.

For questions about the event, please contact Jason Crawford at 850.341.3971.