About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment ("Blue Spaders") was originally constituted in 1901 and has served with distinction in multiple major conflicts. During World War I, the unit fought valiantly as part of the 1st Infantry Division, seeing action in significant battles such as Cantigny and Meuse-Argonne. In World War II, the 1st/26th Infantry participated in the North Africa, Sicily, and Normandy campaigns, earning a reputation for toughness and resilience. In recent decades, the battalion has deployed to the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy of service and excellence in the United States Army.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: The 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry ("Blue Spaders") was originally constituted in 1901 and assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, making it one of the oldest units in the U.S. Army.
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World War II Action: The 1st/26th Infantry landed at Omaha Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and fought across France, Belgium, and into Germany, earning a Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism.
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Nickname "Blue Spaders": The unit’s nickname comes from the blue spade on their distinctive unit insignia, symbolizing the infantry’s traditional role and their legacy.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The battalion was deployed to Vietnam from 1965 to 1970, engaging in numerous operations and earning multiple campaign streamers and decorations.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Several soldiers from the 1st/26th Infantry have received the Medal of Honor for acts of valor, including SSG Fred Zabitosky (Vietnam) and PFC Daniel Shea (Vietnam).
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Bosnia Peacekeeping: In the 1990s, the 1st/26th Infantry deployed to Bosnia as part of NATO's peacekeeping mission, demonstrating their adaptability to new military roles beyond traditional combat.
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Global War on Terror: The battalion deployed to Iraq in 2004 and Afghanistan in 2006 and 2008, enduring some of the heaviest fighting during the "Surge" in Baghdad and the Korengal Valley.
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Connection to "The Big Red One": The 1st/26th Infantry has always been closely associated with the 1st Infantry Division, known as "The Big Red One," sharing in its storied history.
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Famous Leaders: The unit has been commanded by notable figures, including Lieutenant Colonel George S. Patton early in his career, who later became famous in World War II.
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Motto and Tradition: The battalion’s motto, "Leading the Way," reflects its long-standing tradition of being at the forefront of major American military operations for over a century.
