About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment (1/46 Infantry) has a distinguished history within the United States Army. Originally activated during World War II, the unit saw extensive combat in Europe as part of the 5th Armored Division. Throughout the Vietnam War, the 1/46 Infantry earned a reputation for bravery and effectiveness in challenging jungle operations. In later years, the unit was stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where it was tasked with training and preparing new soldiers as part of the Army’s Basic Combat Training mission.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 1st Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment (1/46 Infantry) was constituted on 15 May 1917 and organized at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana. It served with distinction in World War II as part of the 5th Armored Division.
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Vietnam War Service: 1/46 Infantry was activated for service in Vietnam in 1967, where it became part of the Americal Division (23rd Infantry Division), participating in major operations in Quang Ngai and Quang Tin Provinces.
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Heroic Actions in Vietnam: The unit earned numerous decorations for valor in Vietnam, including Presidential Unit Citations and individual awards for heroism, such as the Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Stars.
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Reactivation at Fort Knox: The battalion was reactivated at Fort Knox, Kentucky, in the 1980s as a basic training unit, transitioning from combat to training future soldiers.
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Training New Soldiers: At Fort Knox, 1/46 Infantry was part of the 194th Armored Brigade, specializing in basic combat training for armor and cavalry recruits.
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Unit Motto: The 46th Infantry Regiment's motto is "Victory’s Point," reflecting its commitment to achieving mission success.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit's insignia features a blue shield with a white bayonet, symbolizing the infantry, and a black lion, representing courage and strength.
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Deactivation and Legacy: 1/46 Infantry was inactivated at Fort Knox in 1995, but its traditions continue in other training brigades and through its veterans’ associations.
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Notable Leadership: Several officers and NCOs who served in 1/46 Infantry went on to prominent military careers, including general officers and senior leaders in the U.S. Army.
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Veteran Reunions and Memorials: Alumni of the 1/46 Infantry regularly hold reunions and have established memorials to honor fallen comrades, particularly those who served in Vietnam and during the training era at Fort Knox.
