About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment (1/18th Infantry), known as the "Vanguards," was constituted in 1861 and has a storied history within the U.S. Army. The unit fought in major conflicts including the Civil War, World War I, and World War II, earning campaign streamers for service in Europe and North Africa. During the Cold War, 1/18th Infantry was stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. commitment to NATO, and later deployed to the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan in the 21st century. The battalion continues to serve as part of the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, upholding its legacy of excellence and readiness.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Civil War: The 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment ("1-18 IN") was first organized in 1861 as part of the original 18th Infantry Regiment, serving valiantly in the American Civil War, including at the Battles of Shiloh and Chickamauga.
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Participation in Indian Wars: After the Civil War, the regiment was involved in campaigns against Native American tribes during the Indian Wars, expanding U.S. presence in the west.
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World War I Service: The 18th Infantry Regiment, including 1st Battalion elements, served with distinction in France as part of the 1st Infantry Division ("The Big Red One"), fighting in major battles such as Cantigny, Soissons, and Meuse-Argonne.
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Normandy Landings in WWII: 1/18th Infantry landed on Omaha Beach during D-Day, June 6, 1944, playing a pivotal role in the liberation of France.
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Service in the Vietnam War: The battalion deployed to Vietnam with the 1st Infantry Division in 1965, participating in numerous operations and earning multiple unit commendations for valor.
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Peacekeeping in the Balkans: In the 1990s, soldiers from 1/18th Infantry participated in peacekeeping missions in Bosnia and Kosovo as part of NATO operations.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: The battalion deployed multiple times to Iraq in the 2000s, conducting counterinsurgency operations and training Iraqi Security Forces.
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Motto and Nickname: The unit’s motto is “Vanguards,” reflecting its role in leading the way in combat and its proud tradition of being at the forefront of U.S. Army operations.
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Decorations and Honors: Over its history, 1/18th Infantry has earned numerous awards, including Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and foreign decorations such as the French Croix de Guerre.
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Modern Deployments: The battalion remains an active part of the U.S. Army today, having most recently deployed to areas such as Afghanistan and Eastern Europe as part of NATO and deterrence operations.
