About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 58th Infantry Regiment (1/58th Infantry) has a distinguished history within the United States Army. Originally constituted during World War I, the unit has served in multiple major conflicts, including World War II and the Vietnam War, where it was known for its expertise in infantry tactics and jungle warfare. During the Vietnam War, elements of the 1/58th Infantry played a significant role in search and destroy operations and convoy security. In more recent years, the battalion has been tasked with training and preparing new soldiers at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), Georgia, as part of the Army’s Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT) program.
Historical Facts
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Vietnam War Origins: The 1st Battalion, 58th Infantry Regiment (1/58th Infantry) was originally activated during the Vietnam War era, serving primarily as a training and security unit.
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Mobile Riverine Force: Elements of the 58th Infantry were assigned to riverine operations, working alongside the Navy in the Mekong Delta, conducting search and clear missions.
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Security for Airmobile Operations: The 1/58th provided security for major airmobile operations, protecting landing zones and perimeter defenses during helicopter assaults in Vietnam.
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Fort Benning Training: Since the 1980s, 1/58th Infantry has been primarily based at Fort Benning, Georgia, where it is responsible for the training of new infantry soldiers.
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Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT): The battalion is a key component of the U.S. Army’s Infantry OSUT, integrating both basic and advanced infantry skills in a single cycle.
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Motto “Rock of the Marne”: The 58th Infantry Regiment’s motto pays homage to its World War I heritage, referencing the defense of the Marne River in France.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 58th Infantry’s insignia features a gold bar and blue background, symbolizing both infantry traditions and the regiment's steadfastness.
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Honors and Campaigns: The regiment has campaign participation credit for World War II, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism, reflecting its long-standing service.
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Transformation Era: In the 2000s, 1/58th Infantry adapted to new training requirements, including urban warfare and counterinsurgency tactics.
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Alumni Impact: Thousands of infantry soldiers and leaders have begun their Army careers with 1/58th Infantry, making it one of the most influential training battalions in the U.S. Army.
