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1:502nd Infantry

U.S. Army•63 members

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About this Unit

1:502nd Infantry

U.S. Army

The 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment (1/502nd Infantry), known as the "First Strike," is a distinguished unit of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). Activated during World War II, the 502nd parachuted into Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944, playing a critical role in the liberation of France and subsequent European campaigns. The battalion later saw combat in Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, earning numerous unit citations for valor. Today, the 1/502nd continues its legacy of rapid deployment and excellence in air assault operations.

About 1:502nd Infantry

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins in World War II: The 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment traces its roots to the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, activated in July 1942 as part of the famed 101st Airborne Division ("Screaming Eagles").
D-Day Paratroopers: The battalion made its combat debut during the D-Day invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, parachuting behind enemy lines to secure key objectives and disrupt German defenses.
Bastogne and the Battle of the Bulge: Elements of the 1/502nd played a crucial role in the defense of Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, enduring bitter cold and heavy German attacks.
Vietnam War Service: The battalion was deployed to Vietnam in 1967 and participated in major operations such as Operation Nevada Eagle and the Battle of Hamburger Hill (Ap Bia Mountain) in 1969.
Nickname "First Strike": The 1/502nd is known by the nickname "First Strike," symbolizing its rapid response and assault capabilities.
Decorations and Honors: The 1/502nd has received numerous unit citations, including Presidential Unit Citations and French and Belgian Croix de Guerre for its actions in World War II.
Air Assault Transition: In the 1970s, the battalion transitioned from airborne to air assault operations, becoming experts in helicopter-borne tactics as part of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).
Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan: Since 2001, the 1/502nd has deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting counterinsurgency and stability operations.
Memorialized in Media: The exploits of the 502nd PIR, including the 1st Battalion, are depicted in books and documentaries such as "Band of Brothers" and "Citizen Soldiers" by Stephen E. Ambrose.
Regimental Motto: The regimental motto is "Strike," reflecting the aggressive spirit and combat heritage of the unit.

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1:502nd Infantry

U.S. Army•63 members

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About this Unit

1:502nd Infantry

U.S. Army

Unit members

Jeremy Layton

U.S. Army · 1999 - 2001

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Derek Duncan

U.S. Army · 1975 - 1981

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Paul Jowers

U.S. Army · 1993 - 2000

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BRIAN OLVER

U.S. Army · 2002 - 2004

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Army photos

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About 1:502nd Infantry

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins in World War II: The 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment traces its roots to the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, activated in July 1942 as part of the famed 101st Airborne Division ("Screaming Eagles").
D-Day Paratroopers: The battalion made its combat debut during the D-Day invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, parachuting behind enemy lines to secure key objectives and disrupt German defenses.
Bastogne and the Battle of the Bulge: Elements of the 1/502nd played a crucial role in the defense of Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, enduring bitter cold and heavy German attacks.
Vietnam War Service: The battalion was deployed to Vietnam in 1967 and participated in major operations such as Operation Nevada Eagle and the Battle of Hamburger Hill (Ap Bia Mountain) in 1969.
Nickname "First Strike": The 1/502nd is known by the nickname "First Strike," symbolizing its rapid response and assault capabilities.
Decorations and Honors: The 1/502nd has received numerous unit citations, including Presidential Unit Citations and French and Belgian Croix de Guerre for its actions in World War II.
Air Assault Transition: In the 1970s, the battalion transitioned from airborne to air assault operations, becoming experts in helicopter-borne tactics as part of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).
Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan: Since 2001, the 1/502nd has deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting counterinsurgency and stability operations.
Memorialized in Media: The exploits of the 502nd PIR, including the 1st Battalion, are depicted in books and documentaries such as "Band of Brothers" and "Citizen Soldiers" by Stephen E. Ambrose.
Regimental Motto: The regimental motto is "Strike," reflecting the aggressive spirit and combat heritage of the unit.