About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment (1/31 INF) is a storied unit with origins dating back to its activation in 1916. As part of the 7th Infantry Division (7ID), the battalion saw distinguished service in World War II, particularly during the Aleutian Islands Campaign and the liberation of the Philippines. The 1/31 INF earned further recognition during the Korean War, notably at the Chosin Reservoir, where it endured harsh conditions and fierce combat. Over the years, the unit has continued to serve with distinction in various capacities, upholding its legacy as part of the 7th Infantry Division.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: The 1st Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment ("1/31 INF") was originally constituted in 1916 and organized in the Philippines in 1917, making it one of the oldest continuously serving infantry units in the U.S. Army.
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Siberian Expedition: The regiment was famously deployed to Siberia in 1918 as part of the American Expeditionary Force Siberia, guarding the Trans-Siberian Railroad and fighting Bolshevik forces—a rare instance of U.S. troops in Russia.
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"Polar Bears" Nickname: Due to their service in Siberia, the unit earned the nickname "Polar Bears," a moniker still associated with the regiment today.
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Philippines and Bataan: Elements of the 31st Infantry were present in the Philippines at the outbreak of World War II, fighting valiantly in the defense of Bataan before many were captured in the infamous Bataan Death March.
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Reactivation and Korean War: The unit was reactivated after WWII and fought in the Korean War, including the brutal Battle of Chosin Reservoir, where it suffered heavy casualties but held its ground against overwhelming Chinese forces.
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Decorations for Valor: The regiment has earned numerous honors, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards, recognizing extraordinary heroism in Siberia, the Philippines, and Korea.
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Vietnam War Service: 1/31 INF served with distinction in Vietnam as part of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade, conducting search-and-destroy missions, ambushes, and patrols throughout the conflict.
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Assignment to 7th Infantry Division: The 1/31 INF has been assigned to the 7th Infantry Division (7ID) at various points, including during the Cold War, where it trained for rapid deployment and jungle warfare at Fort Ord, California.
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Humanitarian and Peacekeeping Missions: Beyond combat, the unit has supported numerous peacekeeping and humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations in Central America and humanitarian exercises in the Pacific.
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Modern Deployments: In recent decades, 1/31 INF has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, participating in counterinsurgency, stability, and nation-building operations, continuing its legacy of service and adaptability.
