About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment ("Buffaloes") was originally constituted in 1861 and has served with distinction in numerous conflicts, including the Civil War, Indian Wars, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism. The unit earned a reputation for tenacity and valor, notably participating in the Aleutian Islands campaign during World War II and major actions during the Korean War, such as at Pork Chop Hill. Throughout its history, 1/17th Infantry has been part of several divisions, including the 7th Infantry Division. In recent years, the battalion has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy of service and sacrifice.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Civil War: The 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment ("1/17th Infantry") was constituted on May 3, 1861, and organized at Fort Preble, Maine, serving with distinction in the American Civil War.
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Battle Honors at Fredericksburg: The regiment fought bravely at the Battle of Fredericksburg (December 1862), suffering heavy casualties during assaults against entrenched Confederate positions.
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Indian Wars Campaigns: After the Civil War, 1/17th Infantry participated in the Indian Wars, operating across the western frontier, including campaigns against the Apache and Sioux.
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Decorated in the Spanish-American War: The unit fought in the Santiago Campaign in Cuba (1898), earning campaign streamers for its actions.
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Philippine Insurrection: The battalion served in the Philippines from 1899 to 1902, engaging in actions during the Philippine-American War.
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World War II Valor: Assigned to the 7th Infantry Division, 1/17th Infantry landed at Attu in the Aleutian Islands (1943), then participated in the Kwajalein, Leyte, and Okinawa campaigns in the Pacific Theater.
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Korean War Distinction: 1/17th Infantry earned multiple Presidential Unit Citations for gallantry in the Korean War, notably at Inchon, the Battle of Pork Chop Hill, and the advance to the Yalu River.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The battalion served in Vietnam from 1965 to 1971, conducting combat operations in the Central Highlands and earning additional decorations.
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Recent Service in Afghanistan: 1/17th Infantry deployed several times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting counterinsurgency operations in Kandahar and Zabul provinces (notably in 2009–2010).
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Motto and Nickname: The regiment's motto is “Truth and Courage”, and its nickname is “The Buffalos”—inspired by the buffalo, a symbol of strength and perseverance adopted in the Indian Wars.
