About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment (1/41 INF) has a distinguished history within the United States Army, tracing its lineage back to its constitution in 1917. The unit saw action in World War II, participating in key campaigns across North Africa, Sicily, and Europe. During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, 1/41 INF made history as the first U.S. Army unit to breach the Iraqi defensive lines, playing a pivotal role in the ground offensive. In recent years, the battalion has deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, continuing its tradition of excellence and adaptability on modern battlefields.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment (1/41 INF) traces its lineage back to 1917, when it was first constituted during World War I as part of the 10th Division.
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Nickname: 1/41 INF is nicknamed the "Straight and Stalwart Battalion," echoing the regimental motto, "Straight and Stalwart."
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World War II Service: The unit fought with distinction during World War II in campaigns across North Africa, Sicily, and Italy as part of the 2nd Armored Division.
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Gulf War Pioneers: 1/41 INF was the first American unit to breach the Saddam Line during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, leading the famous "left hook" maneuver.
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Twin Battles: During Desert Storm, 1/41 INF participated in the Battle of 73 Easting and the Battle of Norfolk, two of the largest tank battles in U.S. history.
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Combined Arms Team: In Desert Storm, 1/41 INF served as a mechanized infantry battalion integrated with armor (tanks), engineers, and artillery, exemplifying the modern U.S. Army combined arms team.
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Decorations: The battalion has been awarded multiple Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and foreign decorations for bravery and excellence in combat.
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Bosnia and Kosovo: 1/41 INF deployed to the Balkans in the late 1990s and early 2000s, participating in peacekeeping operations in Bosnia (SFOR) and Kosovo (KFOR).
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: The battalion deployed several times to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting combat and stability operations in places like Ramadi and Fallujah.
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Modern Era: Today, 1/41 INF is part of the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado, continuing its legacy of service, readiness, and excellence.