About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment (2/7th Infantry) has a distinguished history within the United States Army, tracing its lineage back to the War of 1812. The unit fought valiantly in major conflicts including the Civil War, World War II, and the Korean War, earning numerous campaign streamers and decorations. During the Vietnam War, 2/7th Infantry was part of the 199th Light Infantry Brigade and participated in significant operations such as the Tet Offensive. In recent decades, the battalion has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its tradition of service and sacrifice in support of U.S. military objectives worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Civil War: The 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment (2/7th Infantry) traces its lineage back to 1812, but the 7th Infantry Regiment itself was first organized in 1812 and fought in the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, and the American Civil War.
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Nickname - "Cottonbalers": The 7th Infantry Regiment earned its famous nickname "The Cottonbalers" at the Battle of New Orleans in 1815, where soldiers used cotton bales as defensive works.
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World War II Service: The 2/7th Infantry fought with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II, including the battles of Guadalcanal, New Guinea, and the Philippines.
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Korean War Heroics: 2/7th Infantry was part of the 3rd Infantry Division and participated in major actions including the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and the battles for Seoul.
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Vietnam War Operations: The battalion fought in Vietnam as part of the 199th Light Infantry Brigade, conducting search and destroy missions, and participating in the 1968 Tet Offensive.
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Decorations and Honors: The 7th Infantry Regiment, including 2/7th, has received numerous unit citations, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards for heroism in combat.
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Modern Deployments: In the 21st century, 2/7th Infantry has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, conducting counterinsurgency, stability, and advisory operations.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Throughout its history, soldiers of the 7th Infantry Regiment have been awarded over 60 Medals of Honor, a testament to their bravery.
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Famous Motto: The regimental motto, "Volens et Potens" ("Willing and Able"), reflects the spirit and readiness of the unit throughout its long history.
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Legacy in Military History: The 2/7th Infantry has fought in more campaigns than almost any other unit in the U.S. Army, earning a reputation as one of its most decorated and storied infantry battalions.
