About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment ("Cacti Blue") was originally constituted in 1916 and has served with distinction in multiple conflicts. It saw significant action during World War II in the Pacific Theater, notably in the Solomon Islands and the Philippines. The battalion was later deployed to Vietnam, participating in major operations such as the Battle of Pleiku and Operation Paul Revere. In recent decades, 2/35th Infantry has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the 25th Infantry Division, continuing its legacy of service and adaptability.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment ("Cacti Blue") was originally constituted in the Regular Army on July 1, 1916, and has served in multiple major conflicts since its creation.
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World War II Service: The unit was assigned to the 25th Infantry Division and saw extensive combat in the Pacific Theater, including Guadalcanal, Luzon, and the Northern Solomons campaigns.
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Korean War: The 2/35th Infantry was deployed to Korea, participating in notable battles such as the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and the push northward toward the Yalu River.
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Vietnam War: Deployed in 1966, 2/35th Infantry was heavily engaged in Vietnam, notably in the Central Highlands and the Pleiku and Kontum provinces, earning a reputation for toughness and resilience.
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"Cacti Blue" Nickname: The battalion’s nickname, “Cacti Blue,” stems from the regimental crest, which features a cactus representing its early service along the Mexican border.
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Presidential Unit Citations: The 2/35th Infantry has received multiple Presidential Unit Citations, including for actions in Luzon during World War II and in Pleiku Province during the Vietnam War.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Several members of the 35th Infantry Regiment have received the Medal of Honor, including SSG Robert S. Kennemore (Korea) and SGT Gordon Yntema (Vietnam).
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Current Assignment: As of 2024, the 2/35th Infantry is part of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The distinctive unit insignia features a prickly pear cactus and a blue shield, reflecting both its Mexican Border Service and Infantry heritage.
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Regimental Motto: The motto of the 35th Infantry Regiment is “Take Arms!” – a rallying cry that has motivated soldiers of the unit for over a century.
