About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 104th Infantry Regiment (2/104th Infantry) is a unit of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard with a lineage tracing back to the 19th century. Originating as part of the state's militia, the 104th Infantry served in notable conflicts including the Civil War, World War I with the 26th "Yankee" Division, and World War II, where it participated in campaigns across Europe. The battalion has since been reorganized several times, supporting both state and federal missions, including deployments in the Global War on Terror. Today, the 2/104th Infantry continues to serve as a vital infantry element within the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, upholding a proud tradition of service and sacrifice.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Revolutionary War: The 2nd Battalion, 104th Infantry traces its lineage to militia companies formed in western Massachusetts in 1639, with its later regiments fighting in the American Revolution as part of the Massachusetts Militia.
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Civil War Service: The 104th Infantry’s predecessor units served in the Civil War as the 10th Massachusetts Infantry, participating in major campaigns such as Antietam, Fredericksburg, and Gettysburg.
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World War I Valor: In World War I, the 104th Infantry became the first American unit to be decorated by a foreign government (France) for bravery in combat, earning the Croix de Guerre for its actions at Apremont in April 1918.
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Famous Regimental Motto: The 104th Infantry’s motto, "Hold to the last," reflects its reputation for steadfastness and resilience during fierce battles, especially during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive.
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World War II Deployments: The 104th Infantry, including its 2nd Battalion, fought in the European Theater, landing in Normandy shortly after D-Day and participating in campaigns across France, Belgium, and Germany.
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Battle of the Bulge: During the Battle of the Bulge, the 2/104th Infantry played a crucial defensive role, helping to repel German advances and secure Allied victories in the Ardennes.
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Postwar Service: After World War II, the 104th Infantry was reorganized and continued as part of the Massachusetts Army National Guard, serving in both state and federal missions.
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Cold War and Modern Deployments: The 2/104th Infantry has supported peacekeeping missions and homeland defense, providing support during the Berlin Crisis and more recently, deploying soldiers in support of the Global War on Terror.
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Unit Insignia and Symbols: The distinctive unit insignia features a blue shield with a silver cross, symbolizing both its infantry heritage and the French Croix de Guerre awarded in World War I.
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Community Ties: The 2/104th Infantry maintains deep roots in Western Massachusetts, with many soldiers being part of multigenerational military families and actively participating in community events and disaster responses.
