About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment (2/112th IN) is a unit of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard with a lineage dating back to the American Civil War. It has served under various designations and participated in major conflicts, including World Wars I and II, where it saw combat in the European Theater. In recent decades, 2/112th Infantry has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, playing a key role in security and stability missions. Today, it remains an integral part of the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, continuing its tradition of service both at home and abroad.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment traces its lineage back to 1872, originally formed as the 16th Regiment, Pennsylvania National Guard.
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Spanish-American War: The unit served in the Spanish-American War (1898), being mustered into federal service as part of the U.S. Army's expansion.
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World War I Service: As part of the 28th Infantry Division ("Keystone Division"), the 112th Infantry saw heavy combat in France, participating in the Oise-Aisne and Meuse-Argonne offensives.
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World War II: The 2/112th Infantry played a significant role in the European Theater, fighting in Normandy, the Battle of the Bulge, and the Rhineland campaigns.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Members of the 112th Infantry have received the Medal of Honor, the highest U.S. military decoration, for acts of valor during its history.
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Cold War Era: The battalion was a vital part of the National Guard during the Cold War, ready for rapid mobilization in case of conflict with the Soviet Union.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: 2/112th Infantry was mobilized and deployed to Iraq in 2004-2005, conducting security and combat operations as part of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard's contributions to the Global War on Terror.
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Operation Enduring Freedom: The battalion has also deployed to Afghanistan, supporting NATO and U.S. operations in the region as part of ongoing counterinsurgency efforts.
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Community Support: In addition to overseas deployments, 2/112th Infantry has responded to domestic emergencies, including natural disasters, civil disturbances, and COVID-19 pandemic support.
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Current Role: Today, the 2/112th Infantry is headquartered in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, and continues to serve as a light infantry battalion in the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, blending historical tradition with modern military capability.