About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment ("Cottonbalers") is a distinguished unit of the United States Army with origins dating back to 1812. The battalion earned its nickname at the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812, where soldiers fought behind cotton bales. Throughout its history, the 1-7 Infantry has served in major conflicts, including the Civil War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, and recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Renowned for its valor and professionalism, the battalion continues to uphold its proud legacy as part of the 3rd Infantry Division.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Civil War: The 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment is part of the famed 7th Infantry Regiment, known as the "Cottonbalers," which traces its lineage back to 1812. The nickname comes from the Battle of New Orleans, where the regiment fought behind bales of cotton.
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Mexican-American War Service: The regiment fought in the Mexican-American War, earning distinction at the Battles of Cerro Gordo and Chapultepec, and helping capture Mexico City.
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Valor in the Civil War: The 7th Infantry fought in major battles on both the eastern and western fronts, including Antietam, Gettysburg, and the Atlanta Campaign.
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World War II - Pacific Theater: The 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry, as part of the 3rd Infantry Division, was heavily engaged in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France, and Germany, participating in amphibious assaults and earning multiple Presidential Unit Citations.
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Korean War Actions: The battalion distinguished itself at the Battle of Inchon, the liberation of Seoul, and the Chosin Reservoir, enduring harsh conditions and fierce combat.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The 1-7 Infantry served in Vietnam, conducting operations in the Mekong Delta, Central Highlands, and along the Cambodian border, where it earned a reputation for toughness and adaptability.
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Operation Desert Storm: The battalion participated in the 1991 Gulf War as part of the 3rd Infantry Division, helping liberate Kuwait and earning the Valorous Unit Award.
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Global War on Terror: 1-7 Infantry has deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, participating in major operations such as the Battle of Fallujah, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Over its history, soldiers of the 7th Infantry Regiment have received more than 70 Medals of Honor, reflecting the unit's legacy of heroism and sacrifice.
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Modern Day: Today, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry ("Cottonbalers") is part of the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia, and continues to serve as a vital component of U.S. Army readiness and rapid deployment capabilities.
