1:18th E Co Recon plt

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.