About this Unit
The 31st Infantry Regiment, known as the "Polar Bears," was constituted in the United States Army in 1916 and first organized at Fort Thomas, Kentucky. The regiment gained distinction during the Siberian Expedition of 1918-1920, where it served as part of the American Expeditionary Force in Russia. During World War II, the 31st Infantry fought valiantly in the defense of the Philippines and endured the Bataan Death March. In subsequent decades, the regiment participated in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, continuing its legacy of service and resilience in numerous conflicts around the globe.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Nickname: The 31st Infantry Regiment was formed in 1916 at Fort William McKinley, Philippines. It is famously nicknamed "The Polar Bears" due to their deployment to Siberia during the Russian Civil War.
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Siberian Expedition: The regiment participated in the Allied intervention in Siberia from 1918 to 1920, guarding the Trans-Siberian Railway and engaging Bolshevik forces, making it one of the few U.S. units to fight in Russia.
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Philippine Defense in WWII: The 31st Infantry was part of the defense of Bataan during the Japanese invasion of the Philippines in World War II, with many members enduring the Bataan Death March after surrender.
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Decorations: The regiment has earned multiple Presidential Unit Citations and foreign honors, including the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation for its actions in the Philippines during WWII.
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Korean War Service: The 31st Infantry Regiment fought in the Korean War, including the harrowing Battle of Chosin Reservoir, where it suffered heavy casualties but demonstrated exceptional resilience.
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Vietnam War Deployments: Elements of the 31st served in Vietnam, conducting search and destroy missions and earning additional campaign honors for their service.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Several soldiers from the regiment have received the Medal of Honor, including Sergeant First Class William S. Sitman and Private First Class John F. Thorson for their valor in Korea and WWII, respectively.
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Symbolic Colors: The regimental colors feature a polar bear, symbolizing its service in Siberia, a unique distinction among U.S. Army units.
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Modern Deployments: In recent decades, the regiment has served in peacekeeping and combat roles, including missions in Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the Global War on Terrorism.
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Regimental Motto: The 31st Infantry Regiment's motto is "Pro Patria" ("For Country"), reflecting its long tradition of service in diverse and challenging environments around the globe.
