About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 297th Infantry Regiment (1/297th Infantry) is a unit of the Alaska Army National Guard with a proud history of service. Originally organized in the territorial period, the unit and its predecessors have served in various capacities since World War II, providing defense for Alaska and contributing troops for overseas deployments. The battalion has participated in federal missions, including support for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as state missions such as disaster response and homeland security. Today, the 1/297th Infantry continues to embody the spirit and resilience of Alaska’s citizen-soldiers, ensuring readiness for both state and national defense.
Historical Facts
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Alaska Roots: The 1st Battalion, 297th Infantry Regiment (1/297th IN) is a unit of the Alaska Army National Guard, with a lineage tracing back to the early 20th century when Alaska’s militia forces were first organized.
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Territorial Defense: The unit's origins are linked to the Alaska Territorial Guard ("Eskimo Scouts"), who played a vital role in defending Alaska during World War II, especially against the threat of Japanese invasion.
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Unique Arctic Training: 1/297th Infantry specializes in arctic and cold-weather warfare, training soldiers to operate in some of the world’s harshest environments, including snow, ice, and extreme cold.
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Homeland Security: The battalion has played a crucial role in homeland defense and disaster response in Alaska, responding to natural disasters such as floods, wildfires, and earthquakes.
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Global Deployments: Members of the 1/297th have deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo, supporting U.S. and coalition operations as part of the Global War on Terrorism and peacekeeping missions.
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Modernization: The regiment transitioned from a scout and cavalry focus to infantry in 2006, becoming the 1st Battalion, 297th Infantry, to better serve modern operational requirements.
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Community Ties: The battalion is deeply integrated with Alaska’s rural and indigenous communities, with many soldiers hailing from remote villages, continuing the tradition of the Alaska Territorial Guard.
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Operation Arctic Care: 1/297th Infantry soldiers regularly support "Operation Arctic Care," a joint military-civilian mission delivering medical and dental care to rural Alaskan communities.
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Historic Insignia: The regiment’s insignia features a polar bear, symbolizing its arctic heritage and toughness in extreme conditions.
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Presidential Recognition: The Alaska Territorial Guard (the unit’s predecessor) was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2020, recognizing their service and contributions during World War II.
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