Unit Story

The 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment (3–69 AR) is a United States Army combined arms battalion and part of the 3rd Infantry Division based at Fort Stewart, Georgia. 3–69 AR was the first conventional US unit to enter Iraq in 2003, and among the first units to serve four tours in Iraq.In March 2003 the battalion, under the command of LTC Ernest P. "Rock" Marcone, deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom I, where it served as the "Point of the Spear" for the 3rd Infantry Division, participating in many 1BCT battles, to include the seizure of Baghdad International Airport.When the campaign started, 3–69 AR led the rest of 3ID on the drive to Baghdad. After helping destroy the Iraqi 11th Infantry Division at Nasiriyah, 3ID turned north-west, covering unprecedented distance rapidly. It was temporarily stopped south of the Karbala Gap due to intense sandstorms and a need to wait for logistical support. Once the weather improved, the division resumed its advance, clearing the gap and turning north-east towards Baghdad. Tanks from 1st Platoon, A Company, 3–69 AR entered the Baghdad International Airport (BIAP)shortly after midnight on 4 April and 3–69 AR captured (BIAP)later that day, after limited resistance from elements of the Hammurabi Division of the Republican Guard.

Mission

From July 28-30, 2023, the Soldiers of 3rd Bn 69th Armor will be supported by the Robert Irvine Foundation's Reuniting the Brave (RTB) program at Ft. Stewart, GA. Your planning committee consists of William Chasteen, Josh Maxwell, Adam Messinger, John Cupples, and Matt Magda who are working alongside the Robert Irvine Foundation to plan and execute an unforgettable weekend that honors and remembers your service while rebuilding the network of warriors that served alongside you. 

Support

You will notice a question on the ticket registration asking if you require travel support. The Robert Irvine Foundation understands that everyone's situation is different and we would never want someone to not attend due to finances. If you answer yes, an RIF team member will reach out to you to facilitate your needs. Details below:

Veterans: The purpose of this support is if you would otherwise be unable to attend due to financial hardship. It is completely anonymous and your information will be kept private. If this does not apply to you, please coordinate your own travel so that we can maximize our assistance to yours and future efforts to reunite our Nation's warriors.

Gold Star Families / Families of the Fallen: We are honored to take care of your travel through our partnership with American Airlines