1 Battalion 52nd Infantry

• Origins in the Civil War: The 52nd Infantry Regiment was originally constituted in 1917, but its lineage traces to World War I, drawing on traditions reaching back to the Civil War era. • World War II Service: The unit served with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II, earning several campaign streamers for combat operations in the Aleutian Islands. • Vietnam War Deployments: 1st Battalion, 52nd Infantry saw extensive combat in Vietnam, operating as part of the 198th Infantry Brigade and earning the Valorous Unit Award for actions near Tam Ky. • Nickname "Ready Rifles": The battalion is known as the "Ready Rifles," a nickname reflecting its rapid deployment capabilities and readiness for combat. • Cold War in Alaska: During the Cold War, the battalion was stationed in Alaska, where it conducted arctic warfare training and played a key role in defending the northern approaches to North America. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: Elements of 1-52 Infantry participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting convoy security, route clearance, and stability operations in northern Iraq. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit's insignia features a polar bear, reflecting its historic ties to arctic operations and service in Alaska. • Humanitarian Missions: The battalion has been involved in various humanitarian missions, including disaster response and support to civil authorities during emergencies in Alaska. • Modern Mechanized Infantry: Today, 1-52 IN is part of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, operating Stryker armored vehicles for rapid mobility. • Regimental Motto: The battalion's motto is "Fortis et Certus" (Brave and Sure), encapsulating its legacy of courage and reliability in diverse operational environments.