3:116th

• Deep Roots: The 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment (3/116th) traces its lineage back to 1741, making it one of the oldest continuously serving units in the U.S. military, with origins in the Virginia militia. • D-Day Heroes: The 3/116th landed in the first wave on Omaha Beach during D-Day, June 6, 1944. The unit suffered devastating casualties—over 800 men in a single day—playing a pivotal role in the success of Operation Overlord. • “Stonewall Brigade” Heritage: The 116th Infantry is part of the famed “Stonewall Brigade,” named after Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, a testament to its Civil War service. • Medal of Honor Recipients: Several members of the 116th have received the Medal of Honor, including Technical Sergeant Frank D. Peregory for his actions in Normandy, France, during World War II. • Global Deployments: In recent decades, the 3/116th has deployed in support of missions in Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to national and international security. • “Bedford Boys”: Company A of the 116th, part of the 3/116th, was comprised largely of men from Bedford, Virginia. The town suffered the highest per-capita D-Day losses of any American community. • National Guard Pride: The 3/116th is a proud element of the Virginia Army National Guard, balancing civilian careers with military service and responding to both state and federal missions. • Historic Reenactments: The battalion often participates in historical commemorations and reenactments, especially for D-Day, honoring its legacy and educating the public. • Community Engagement: The unit is deeply involved in its local communities, supporting disaster relief, civil support missions, and veterans’ events throughout Virginia. • Regimental Motto: The 116th Infantry's motto is “Ever Forward,” reflecting its enduring spirit, resilience, and dedication throughout more than two centuries of service.