About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment (2/6th Infantry) has a distinguished history within the United States Army. Originally constituted in 1861, the unit has served in numerous major conflicts, including the Civil War, World War I, and World War II, where it fought in campaigns across North Africa and Europe. During the Vietnam War, the 2/6th Infantry participated in intense combat operations, earning several unit citations for valor. In recent decades, the battalion has deployed in support of peacekeeping and combat missions in the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan, maintaining its reputation for excellence and bravery.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War I: The 2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment ("2/6th Infantry") traces its lineage back to 11 January 1812, and was reorganized into its modern form during World War I, serving as part of the 5th Division.
•
Nickname – "Regulars, By God!": The 6th Infantry Regiment is known for its proud motto, "Regulars, By God!", a phrase reportedly shouted during the Battle of Chippawa in the War of 1812, highlighting its early heritage.
•
Distinguished Service in World War II: The battalion fought in North Africa, Sicily, and Europe with the 1st Armored Division, earning numerous unit decorations for its actions across multiple campaigns.
•
Vietnam War Service: The 2/6th Infantry served with distinction in Vietnam from 1966 to 1971 as part of the 198th Infantry Brigade, conducting combat operations in Quang Ngai and Quang Tin Provinces.
•
Operation Desert Storm: During the Gulf War, the battalion was deployed with the 1st Armored Division and played a role in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991.
•
Peacekeeping in the Balkans: In the late 1990s and early 2000s, 2/6th Infantry participated in NATO peacekeeping operations in Bosnia and Kosovo, helping to stabilize the region after years of conflict.
•
Iraq and Afghanistan Deployments: Since 2003, the battalion has deployed multiple times to both Iraq and Afghanistan, conducting counterinsurgency operations, training local forces, and supporting reconstruction efforts.
•
Decorations and Honors: The 2/6th Infantry has been awarded numerous unit citations, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the Valorous Unit Award, for gallantry and distinguished service.
•
The "Regulars" Legacy: The 6th Infantry Regiment is one of the oldest active units in the U.S. Army, and the 2/6th Battalion continues that tradition, often being called simply "Regulars."
•
Modern Structure and Assignments: Today, 2/6th Infantry is assigned to the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division at Fort Bliss, Texas, and remains a key maneuver battalion in the modern U.S. Army.
