About this Unit
The 193rd Infantry was a regiment of the United States Army formed during World War II. Activated in 1943, it was assigned to the 97th Infantry Division and participated in combat operations in the European Theater. The regiment saw action as Allied forces advanced into Germany in the war’s final months, contributing to the capture of key towns and the liberation of concentration camps. Following the end of hostilities in Europe, the 193rd Infantry was inactivated in 1946 as part of the Army’s postwar demobilization.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 193rd Infantry Brigade was originally constituted on 24 June 1921 in the Organized Reserves as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 193rd Infantry Brigade.
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World War II Service: The unit was not activated during World War II, as many Organized Reserve units were not called up or saw re-designation.
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Panama Canal Zone: The 193rd Infantry Brigade is best known for its role as a garrison force in the Panama Canal Zone, where it was responsible for defending the canal and U.S. interests.
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Activation in Panama: The brigade was activated in the Canal Zone on 8 August 1962, as part of the United States Army Caribbean and later the United States Army South.
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Operation Just Cause: The 193rd played a significant role in Operation Just Cause, the 1989 U.S. invasion of Panama to depose Manuel Noriega. Elements of the brigade took part in key operations, including securing critical areas and combating Panamanian Defense Forces.
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Combat and Security Missions: During its Panama tenure, the brigade conducted a variety of missions, including counter-narcotics, riot control, and humanitarian assistance, reflective of the complex environment in the Canal Zone.
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Deactivation: Following the Panama Canal Treaties and the transfer of the canal to Panamanian control, the 193rd Infantry Brigade was inactivated on 14 October 1994.
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Reactivation in the U.S.: The brigade was reactivated at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, in 2007, where it currently serves as an Initial Entry Training (IET) unit, training new Army recruits.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The brigade's insignia features a blue shield with a white star and a red bayonet, symbolizing infantry heritage and readiness.
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Legacy: The 193rd Infantry Brigade’s motto is “No Ground to Give,” reflecting its legacy of steadfast defense, from the jungles of Panama to training the next generation of American soldiers.
