About this Unit
Echo Company, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment (E Co, 1/18th IN) Reconnaissance Platoon has a distinguished record of service within the U.S. Army. Originally activated during World War I, the 18th Infantry Regiment earned battle honors in both World Wars, with Echo Company’s Recon Platoon emerging as a key element for forward intelligence gathering and security. During the Global War on Terror, E Co Recon Platoon deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, conducting route reconnaissance, surveillance, and direct action missions in support of battalion operations. Known for their adaptability and professionalism, the platoon continues to play a vital role in the regiment’s modern reconnaissance and security missions.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Big Red One: The 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment (1/18th), known as part of the "Big Red One" (1st Infantry Division), has a lineage dating back to the Civil War, with the regiment being constituted in 1861.
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Reconnaissance Platoon Role: E Company’s Recon Platoon has historically served as the battalion's eyes and ears, conducting forward reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition missions to support infantry operations.
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World War II Campaigns: Elements of the 18th Infantry, including reconnaissance elements, landed at Omaha Beach on D-Day and fought through France, Belgium, and into Germany.
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Vietnam Service: The 1/18th Infantry, with its recon platoon, deployed to Vietnam in 1965, participating in major operations such as Operation Junction City and Tet Offensive.
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Cold War Deployments: Throughout the Cold War, the 1/18th and its recon elements were stationed in Germany, prepared for rapid response to any Warsaw Pact aggression.
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Modern Era Missions: The recon platoon has seen action in Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), and Iraqi Freedom, conducting route reconnaissance, HVT raids, and deep surveillance.
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Distinctive Insignia: Members of 1/18th wear the 1st Infantry Division’s famous “Big Red One” shoulder patch, one of the oldest and most recognized unit insignias in the U.S. Army.
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Valor and Decorations: The 18th Infantry Regiment has received numerous unit citations and awards, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards, often recognizing the actions of its recon elements.
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Brotherhood and Traditions: E Company’s Recon Platoon is known for its tight-knit brotherhood, with traditions such as naming their vehicles, maintaining a recon “scroll” of past members, and annual reunions.
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Notable Operations: 1/18th E Co Recon platoon has participated in high-profile operations including the Battle of Fallujah, the Surge in Iraq, and major counterinsurgency actions in Afghanistan’s RC-East.
