Our History


The history of the 311th ESC dates back to the post-World War II period, during which the United States Army recognized that there were a large number of interested and logistically qualified Army Reserve Soldiers available in the Southern California are. Los Angeles was chosen as the location for the headquarters of a new logistics unit.

The 311th Logistical command was activated in 1950 and employed reserve troop units. It was re-designed as the 311th Support Brigade in 1974 and then became the 311th Corps Support Command (COSCOM) in 1979. In 1981, it became the major support headquarters of I Corps, an activate Army organization.

The 311th COSCOM supported Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and joint Endeavor, in the Balkans. It also teamed up with I Corps to support a series of training exercises, including Bold Venture, Cascade Peak, Team Spirit, Yama Sakura and Border Start.

In 2005, as part of the Army-wide transformation, the unit received the current designation of 311th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) or ESC. One of five Army Reserved ESCs, the 311th evolved into a modular, more responsive organization with enhanced logistic capabilities.

The 311th ESC continues to provide support for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Most recently deployed in 2008-2009.

The 311th ESC is currently deployed to Afghanistan serving as Joint Sustainment Command Afghanistan.

Still located in Los Angeles, California, it commands  62 subordinated units with approximately  6,100 personnel, throughout three western states.
Shoulder Patch​
The three arrows, interwoven and moving in accord around the vital area, represent the elements and functions of the organization. They represent transportation, quartering and supply of troops. The patch was designed in 1970.
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Crest​
The mission of the 311th COSCOM/ESC is expressed succinctly in the words of the motto: Provide, Maintain, Sustain. Buff and scarlet are the colors used by support units. The key, a traditional quartermaster symbol, refers to Provide; the chevron symbolizes support and refers to Sustain; and the wrench symbolizes maintenance and refers to Maintain. The wings in the background refer to the City of Los Angeles –‘City of Angels” – where the units is located. The crest was adopted in 1970 and is authorized by the United States Institute of Heraldry.
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    1250 Federal Avenue
    Los Angeles, California 90025

    General Inquiries: (310) 235-4175
    Media Inquiries Only: (310) 235-4122

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