1:501ST INFANTRY

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 1:501ST INFANTRY

The 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment (1/501st INF), known as "Geronimo," traces its lineage to the 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment activated in 1942 during World War II, where it participated in the Normandy landings and the Battle of the Bulge as part of the 101st Airborne Division. After WWII, the unit was reorganized and served in Vietnam, earning multiple commendations for its actions. In later decades, the 1/501st was reassigned to the 4th and then 6th Infantry Divisions, and eventually became part of the 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, stationed in Alaska. The battalion has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, maintaining a reputation for airborne excellence and combat readiness.

Unit Members

Stephen Cruthis

U.S. Army

1:501ST INFANTRYView Profile

James Higdon

U.S. Army

1:501ST INFANTRYView Profile

Photos

Boot Camp

Company C 1st Bn. 38th Inf. Regt. • U.S. Army • 1989

1980

101st airborne division • U.S. Army

U.S. Army

New uniform for wedding

82nd Airborne • U.S. Army • 2018

About 1:501ST INFANTRY

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in WWII: The 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment (1/501st INF), known as "Geronimo," was activated on November 15, 1942, as part of the 101st Airborne Division at Camp Toccoa, Georgia. • D-Day Airborne Assault: On June 6, 1944, the 1/501st jumped into Normandy as part of Operation Overlord, playing a crucial role in the liberation of France during the D-Day invasion. • Battle of the Bulge: The battalion fought valiantly during the Siege of Bastogne, helping to hold the town against German forces during the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944. • "Geronimo" Nickname: The battalion's nickname, "Geronimo," is derived from the famous Apache leader, symbolizing their fighting spirit and airborne heritage. • Vietnam War Service: The 1/501st was reactivated in 1967 and served with distinction in the Vietnam War, participating in major operations including the Tet Offensive and the Battle of Hamburger Hill. • Decorations and Honors: The unit has received numerous commendations, including Presidential Unit Citations, the French Croix de Guerre, and the Belgian Fourragere for their actions in WWII. • Alaska Assignment: Since 1989, the 1/501st has been stationed at Fort Richardson, Alaska, as part of the 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, specializing in Arctic and airborne operations. • Global War on Terror: The battalion has deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, conducting air assault and counterinsurgency missions. • Notable Alumni: Several Medal of Honor recipients have served with the 501st, including Private Joe E. Mann, who was posthumously awarded for his heroic actions during Operation Market Garden. • Regimental Motto: The unit's motto is "Geronimo," reflecting its proud airborne tradition and legacy of courage and resilience in the face of adversity.