About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment (“1/15th Infantry”) is a distinguished unit of the United States Army with origins dating back to 1861. The regiment saw extensive service during the American Civil War and later fought with valor in the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II. In World War II, the 1/15th Infantry was part of the 3rd Infantry Division and participated in major campaigns including North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and France. The battalion also served with distinction in the Korean War, Vietnam War, and has been deployed in recent conflicts such as Operation Iraqi Freedom, upholding a legacy of courage and excellence.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Civil War: The 15th Infantry Regiment, including its 1st Battalion (1/15th Infantry), was formed in 1861 and fought in numerous engagements during the American Civil War, including the Battle of Shiloh and the Atlanta Campaign.
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Indian Wars Service: After the Civil War, the 1/15th Infantry participated in campaigns against Native American tribes on the western frontier, helping to secure new territories for the United States.
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Spanish-American War: The regiment was deployed to Cuba in 1898, where it saw action during the campaign to capture Santiago, contributing to the U.S. victory over Spain.
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China Station – Boxer Rebellion: In 1900, elements of the regiment, including what would become 1/15th Infantry, helped defend foreign legations during the Boxer Rebellion in Beijing, earning the nickname "The China Regiment."
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World War II Valor: The 1/15th Infantry fought with distinction as part of the 3rd Infantry Division in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France, and Germany, earning multiple Presidential Unit Citations and campaign streamers.
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Audie Murphy’s Unit: The most decorated American soldier of World War II, Audie Murphy, served with the 1/15th Infantry. His heroic actions in France in 1945 earned him the Medal of Honor.
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Korean War Actions: The battalion fought at the Pusan Perimeter, Inchon, and in the push to the Yalu River, suffering heavy casualties but earning several unit citations for bravery and effectiveness.
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Vietnam War Deployments: 1/15th Infantry was part of the 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, and elements served in Vietnam, where they engaged in counter-insurgency operations and earned numerous awards for valor.
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Post-Cold War and Modern Deployments: The battalion has participated in peacekeeping missions in Bosnia and Kosovo and has seen combat in Operation Iraqi Freedom, notably in the Baghdad area, earning further distinctions.
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Regimental Motto and Traditions: The 15th Infantry’s regimental motto is "Can Do!"—a reflection of its storied legacy and spirit. The unit maintains strong traditions, including the annual Audie Murphy Award for outstanding NCOs.
