About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment (1/19th Infantry) traces its lineage to the original 19th Infantry Regiment, constituted in 1861 and organized during the American Civil War. Over its history, the battalion has seen action in major conflicts including the Civil War, the Indian Wars, the Philippine-American War, World War II, and the Korean War. In more recent decades, the 1/19th Infantry has served primarily as a training unit at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), Georgia, responsible for conducting Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT) for new recruits. The battalion is recognized for its long-standing traditions of excellence, discipline, and service to the United States Army.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: The 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment was originally constituted in 1861, but its lineage includes significant action in World War I as part of the 18th Division.
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Korean War Valor: During the Korean War, the unit distinguished itself in several major campaigns, including the Pusan Perimeter and the drive to the Yalu River.
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Vietnam Service: The 1/19th Infantry fought in Vietnam, participating in multiple counterinsurgency operations and earning several unit citations.
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Training Battalion Role: In the modern era, 1/19th Infantry is primarily known as a basic training battalion at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), Georgia, teaching new recruits the fundamentals of soldiering.
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Motto – “Rock of Chickamauga”: The regiment’s motto commemorates its stand at the Battle of Chickamauga during the Civil War, where it earned lasting fame for its steadfastness.
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Decorations and Honors: The battalion has been awarded numerous honors, including Presidential Unit Citations and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 19th Infantry Regiment’s insignia features a stone wall, symbolizing the defense at Chickamauga, and a fleur-de-lis, representing service in France during World War I.
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Nickname – “The Rock”: Soldiers of the 1/19th Infantry are often called “The Rock,” a reference to their Civil War legacy and enduring reputation for toughness.
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Famous Alumni: The unit has trained and served with many notable soldiers, including Medal of Honor recipients and senior Army leaders.
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Ongoing Legacy: Today, 1/19th Infantry continues its mission of shaping the next generation of U.S. Army infantry soldiers, instilling values and discipline that have defined the unit for over 160 years.