The US Army's 4th Infantry Division, also known as the "Iron Horse," is headquartered at Fort Carson, Colorado.
A major component of III Armored Corps, the division is organized into three brigade combat teams.
Two equipped with Stryker vehicles and one focused on armored operations, as well as a combat aviation brigade and an artillery brigade.
Known for its versatility and combat readiness, the 4th Infantry Division remains an integral part of the Army's mission to defend and deter threats worldwide.
History and nicknames
The 4th Infantry Division's official nickname, "Ivy," originates from the Roman numeral IV, symbolizing resilience and endurance.
Supporting this legacy, its motto, "Steadfast and Loyal," reflects the division's unwavering commitment to duty and honor.
Alongside "Ivy," the division is also called "Iron Horse," emphasizing its speed, power and ability to deploy rapidly across varying terrains and combat zones.
First distinguishing itself during World War I, the 4th Infantry Division fought in the historic Saint-Mihiel Salient.
Fast forward to World War II, the division made an indelible mark during the D-Day invasion.
Landing at Utah Beach as the first surface-borne unit to arrive in France. It secured a nine-mile frontline to pave the way for follow-on forces.
The division later served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1970, maintaining continuous operations during the conflict as part of its enduring service.
Modern innovations and combat vehicles
The 4th Infantry Division played a pivotal role in Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting over 15 brigade-level combat operations during the conflict's early stages.
Between 2003 and 2021, the division served extensively in both Iraq and Afghanistan, showcasing versatility across diverse combat environments.
The division's units were involved in major milestones, including the 2003 capture of Saddam Hussein by Task Force Ironhorse.
Continuing its modernization, the division transitioned its maneuver elements to Stryker vehicles in two phases.
The 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team began its conversion in 2014, followed by the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, which officially re-designated in June 2020.
These eight-wheeled, all-terrain armored vehicles offer rapid deployment capabilities, modular engine designs for efficient maintenance and advanced situational awareness tools like periscopes for safer mobility.
While the US Army has divested the 105 mm Mobile Gun System variant, the division continues to leverage the Stryker's remaining nine variants.
Including infantry carriers accommodating up to nine troops, to ensure precision in rugged environments like those found in Iraq and Afghanistan.
As the "Ivy Division" moves forward, its enduring motto, "Steadfast and Loyal," continues to guide its mission of protecting freedom and advancing military innovation'
![Soldiers with the 4th Infantry Division provide security during a full mission profile training exercise at Fort Carson, Colorado, March 5, 2026. [US Army]](/ssc/images/2026/03/19/55041-_86e__4th_infantry_division-600_384.webp)