About this Unit
The 287th Infantry Regiment was originally constituted during World War II as part of the U.S. Army. Activated in 1943, the unit served primarily in the European Theater, participating in several key campaigns including the Rhineland and Central Europe operations. Post-war, the regiment was assigned occupation duties in Germany, helping to maintain security and stability during the reconstruction period. Over the years, the 287th Infantry has been reorganized and inactivated, with its lineage honored by successor units in the Army Reserve.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War II: The 287th Infantry Regiment was constituted on 24 December 1942 and activated on 23 February 1943 at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, as part of the U.S. Army during World War II.
•
European Theater Operations: The 287th Infantry saw action in the European Theater, primarily engaged in operations in France and Germany during the latter stages of World War II.
•
Role in the Battle of the Bulge: Elements of the 287th participated in the Battle of the Bulge, the largest and bloodiest single battle fought by the United States in World War II.
•
Crossing the Rhine: The 287th Infantry played a key role in crossing the Rhine River in March 1945, an important milestone in the Allied push into Germany.
•
Liberation Efforts: Units of the 287th were involved in the liberation of several towns and villages previously occupied by German forces, contributing to the freeing of civilians.
•
Post-War Berlin Duty: After the war, the 287th Infantry was assigned to the Berlin Brigade, providing security and maintaining a U.S. presence in Berlin during the Cold War.
•
Guarding the Berlin Wall: The regiment was notable for its role in patrolling and guarding the Berlin Wall, symbolizing the U.S. commitment to West Berlin during tense periods of the Cold War.
•
Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 287th Infantry’s insignia features a blue shield and bayonet, emblematic of its infantry heritage and combat history.
•
Multinational Cooperation: While stationed in Berlin, the 287th routinely worked with British and French forces, participating in joint patrols and ceremonies as part of the Allied presence.
•
Legacy: Although inactivated in the 1990s after German reunification and the end of the Cold War, the 287th Infantry’s legacy continues through the stories and memories of veterans who served in both wartime and during the tense standoff in Berlin.
