About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment (2/14th Infantry), known as the "Golden Dragons," was originally constituted in 1861 and has participated in numerous conflicts throughout U.S. history. The battalion distinguished itself in the Indian Wars, the Philippine-American War, and saw extensive combat during World War II in the Pacific Theater. During the Vietnam War, the 2/14th Infantry earned a reputation for valor and effectiveness, participating in major operations such as the Tet Offensive. In more recent years, the unit has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy of service within the 10th Mountain Division.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment ("Golden Dragons") traces its lineage back to the Civil War, originally constituted in 1861 as part of the 14th Infantry Regiment.
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Vietnam War Service: The battalion was heavily engaged in the Vietnam War, earning several Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards for its actions during major operations such as Operation Attleboro and the battles around Cu Chi and Tay Ninh.
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Nickname - "Golden Dragons": The unit's nickname comes from its service in the Pacific during World War II, where its tenacity and fighting spirit earned it the title "Golden Dragons."
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World War II: The 2/14th fought in the Pacific Theater, notably in the Northern Solomons and Luzon campaigns, playing critical roles in amphibious assaults and jungle warfare.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: The battalion deployed multiple times to Iraq in the 2000s, serving in Baghdad and other areas during intense periods of combat and stabilization operations.
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Presidential Unit Citation: The 2/14th has received the Presidential Unit Citation, one of the highest unit awards, for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy.
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Modern Deployments: In recent years, the 2/14th has deployed to Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, engaging in counterinsurgency and mentoring Afghan security forces.
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Famous Members: Several Medal of Honor recipients have served with the 14th Infantry Regiment, including SSG Billy Lane Lauffer (Vietnam) and SGT William W. Seay (Vietnam).
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit's insignia features a Chinese dragon, symbolizing the regiment’s service in China during the Boxer Rebellion and the battalion’s “Golden Dragons” moniker.
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Current Assignment: Today, 2/14th Infantry is assigned to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) at Fort Drum, New York, and continues to play a vital role in Army readiness and training.
