About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment (1/505th PIR) is a distinguished airborne infantry unit within the 82nd Airborne Division of the United States Army. Activated in 1942, the battalion played a pivotal role in World War II, participating in major campaigns such as Sicily, Normandy (D-Day), and Operation Market Garden. Throughout the Cold War and into the 21st century, 1/505th PIR has deployed to numerous conflict zones including Grenada, Panama, Iraq, and Afghanistan, earning a reputation for rapid deployment and combat effectiveness. The battalion continues to serve as an elite airborne force, upholding its legacy of service, valor, and readiness.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 1st Battalion, 505th Infantry Regiment (1/505th PIR) was originally activated in 1942 as part of the famed 82nd Airborne Division, playing a crucial role in establishing airborne tactics.
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Sicily Jump: In July 1943, the 1/505th conducted its first combat jump during Operation Husky in Sicily, marking one of the earliest large-scale airborne assaults in history.
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Normandy D-Day Invasion: The battalion parachuted into Normandy on June 6, 1944, preceding the beach landings and helping to secure key positions behind enemy lines.
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Battle of the Bulge: The 1/505th fought valiantly in the Battle of the Bulge, facing harsh winter conditions and playing a key defensive role during the German offensive in December 1944.
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Motto and Nickname: The unit’s motto is “H-Minus,” reflecting their readiness to jump into combat at "H-hour minus," or before the main assault, earning them the nickname "Panther Battalion."
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Decorations: The 505th Infantry Regiment and its battalions have been awarded three Presidential Unit Citations and two French Croix de Guerre for extraordinary heroism during WWII.
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Vietnam War Service: Elements of the 1/505th served with distinction in Vietnam, conducting air-assault operations and earning a reputation for bravery and discipline.
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Grenada and Panama: The battalion participated in Operation Urgent Fury (Grenada, 1983) and Operation Just Cause (Panama, 1989), executing airborne assaults and rapid deployments.
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Global War on Terror: Since 2001, 1/505th Infantry has deployed multiple times to Afghanistan and Iraq, engaging in combat, stability operations, and training missions.
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Legacy of Leadership: The 1/505th has produced numerous distinguished leaders, including Medal of Honor recipient LTC John Towle, and continues to train some of the Army’s premier paratroopers at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg).
