About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 151st Infantry Regiment (1-151 IN) is a distinguished unit of the Indiana Army National Guard with roots tracing back to the 19th century. The battalion has served in numerous conflicts, including the Mexican Border Campaign, World War I, World War II—participating notably in the Pacific Theater—and the Global War on Terrorism with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Throughout its history, 1-151 IN has earned multiple honors for valor and outstanding service, reflecting its motto “Wide Awake—Wide Awake.” Today, the battalion continues its legacy, providing trained infantry forces for both state and federal missions.
Historical Facts
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Historic Lineage: The 1st Battalion, 151st Infantry Regiment ("War Hawks") traces its roots back to 1801, making it one of the oldest military units in the United States Army.
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Indiana's Own: The unit is part of the Indiana Army National Guard and has long-standing ties to the state, drawing soldiers from communities across Indiana.
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Vietnam War Distinction: The 1/151st Infantry was the only National Guard infantry unit to serve in Vietnam as a unit, deploying as Company D (Ranger), 151st Infantry in 1969.
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Ranger Legacy: During its Vietnam service, Delta Company 151st earned the nickname "Indiana Rangers" and achieved a remarkable combat record, including the highest kill ratio of any American unit in the war.
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Presidential Unit Citation: For its extraordinary heroism in Vietnam, Company D, 151st Infantry received the Presidential Unit Citation, one of the highest unit awards in the U.S. military.
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Modern Deployments: In the 21st century, the 1/151st Infantry has deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan).
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State and Homeland Missions: The battalion regularly supports state emergency and disaster response missions, including flood relief, civil disturbance, and pandemic response in Indiana.
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Nickname "War Hawks": The unit’s “War Hawks” nickname reflects its aggressive spirit and history of combat effectiveness.
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Decorated History: The 1/151st Infantry and its antecedents have earned numerous campaign streamers and decorations for their service in wars from the War of 1812 through today.
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Unique Vietnam Tradition: The 151st Infantry’s Vietnam-era veterans annually gather to commemorate their service, maintaining a strong bond and passing on their legacy to current soldiers.
