1st:26th infantry

• 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. • 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. • 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. • Vietnam War Deployments: The battalion was deployed to Vietnam from 1965 to 1970, engaging in numerous operations and earning multiple campaign streamers and decorations. • 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). • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.