This certificate design commemorates Cold War service with The 56th Field Artillery Brigade/Command. This Brigade/Command had a unique mission. It was the only Pershing Missile Brigade/Command ever deployed in Europe or any other location in the world. As such, it was a vital link in The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Chain of Defense. The Brigade/Command was composed of three Pershing Missile Firing Battalions, one Infantry Battalion, a Chemical Decontamination Detachment, a Maintenance Battalion (which includes Forward Support Companies stationed with wach Pershing Battalion and an Aviation Company) and the Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 56th Field Artillery Brigade/Command. The more than 5,000 soldiers made up the Brigade/Command stationed on eight Kasernes (Installations) and three remote firing sites scattered through Southern West Germany. Soldiers assigned during this time period dealt with political and organized protests by various German political groups such as The Green Party. The dedication and professionalism shown by soldiers assigned to The 56th Field Artillery Brigade/Command was beyond reproach. The Pershing Missile System was never fired in anger while in the Armys arsenal. With its advanced guidance and control systems, and mobility could be set up and fired in a minimial amount of rime. With its capabilities well noted by the former Soviet Bloc, is said to have helped bring peace and the beginnings of the downfall of the former Soviet Union. It was a system which was retired with honors. In 1990 the missiles and launchers were removed and shortly thereafter The United States Army left the base.