1st Ranger Battalion

• World War II Origins: The 1st Ranger Battalion was activated on June 19, 1942, in Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland, making it the first official American Ranger unit of World War II. • British Commando Training: The original members underwent rigorous training with British Commandos, learning specialized tactics in amphibious assaults and unconventional warfare. • Operation Torch: The battalion’s first combat operation was the amphibious landing at Arzew, Algeria, on November 8, 1942, during Operation Torch. • Raid on "Pointe du Hoc": While most famous for D-Day, the battalion’s legacy includes pioneering techniques later used by Rangers who scaled the cliffs at Pointe du Hoc during the Normandy invasion. • “Darby’s Rangers” Nickname: The 1st Ranger Battalion was often called "Darby’s Rangers" after its first commander, Major William O. Darby. • Heavy Losses at Cisterna: In January 1944, the battalion suffered devastating losses at the Battle of Cisterna, Italy, with most members killed or captured. • Deactivation and Legacy: The original 1st Ranger Battalion was deactivated after World War II but was later reactivated in 1974 as part of the modern 75th Ranger Regiment. • Grenada, 1983: The reactivated battalion participated in Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada, parachuting onto Point Salines airfield to rescue American students. • Global War on Terror: The 1st Ranger Battalion has deployed numerous times to Afghanistan and Iraq, conducting high-value raids and special operations. • Motto and Distinction: The battalion’s motto is “Rangers Lead the Way,” reflecting their tradition of spearheading major operations and setting the standard for elite infantry units.