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502nd Infantry

U.S. Army•34 members

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About this Unit

502nd Infantry

U.S. Army

The 502nd Infantry Regiment, known as the "Strike" Regiment, was activated in July 1942 as part of the 101st Airborne Division during World War II. It distinguished itself in major airborne operations, including the D-Day landings in Normandy, Operation Market Garden, and the Battle of the Bulge. After World War II, the 502nd participated in various conflicts and peacekeeping missions, including service in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and recent deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Throughout its history, the regiment has earned numerous commendations for valor and remains a vital airborne infantry unit in the U.S. Army.

About 502nd Infantry

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins in World War II: The 502nd Infantry Regiment was originally constituted as the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR) in 1942 as part of the U.S. Army’s new airborne forces.
D-Day Landings: The unit parachuted into Normandy on June 6, 1944, as part of the 101st Airborne Division, playing a vital role in the success of the D-Day invasion.
“Strike and Hold” Motto: The 502nd's motto, “Strike and Hold,” reflects its mission to seize and maintain key objectives, often behind enemy lines.
Battle of Carentan: The regiment was crucial in the capture of Carentan, France, securing a link between Omaha and Utah Beaches and enabling further Allied advances.
Operation Market Garden: The 502nd participated in the ambitious Market Garden airdrop in the Netherlands in September 1944, fighting to secure bridges and towns.
Bastogne and the Bulge: During the Battle of the Bulge, the 502nd helped hold the besieged town of Bastogne, enduring harsh winter conditions and heavy enemy attacks.
Vietnam War Service: Reactivated for Vietnam, the 502nd (now an infantry regiment) fought in some of the conflict’s fiercest battles, including Operation Nevada Eagle.
Gulf War and Beyond: The unit deployed to Saudi Arabia in 1990 as part of Operation Desert Shield and later participated in Operation Desert Storm, helping liberate Kuwait.
Modern Deployments: The 502nd has been active in the Global War on Terror, with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan supporting major combat and nation-building operations.
Cultural Legacy: The 502nd’s World War II exploits were depicted in the acclaimed HBO miniseries “Band of Brothers,” highlighting the courage and sacrifices of its paratroopers.

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502nd Infantry

U.S. Army•34 members

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About this Unit

502nd Infantry

U.S. Army

Unit members

Steven Dillman

U.S. Army Veteran · 2005 - 2006

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Glynn Kegley

U.S. Army · 1970 - 1971

U.S. Army Veteran

U.S. Army · 1978 - 1991

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About 502nd Infantry

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins in World War II: The 502nd Infantry Regiment was originally constituted as the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR) in 1942 as part of the U.S. Army’s new airborne forces.
D-Day Landings: The unit parachuted into Normandy on June 6, 1944, as part of the 101st Airborne Division, playing a vital role in the success of the D-Day invasion.
“Strike and Hold” Motto: The 502nd's motto, “Strike and Hold,” reflects its mission to seize and maintain key objectives, often behind enemy lines.
Battle of Carentan: The regiment was crucial in the capture of Carentan, France, securing a link between Omaha and Utah Beaches and enabling further Allied advances.
Operation Market Garden: The 502nd participated in the ambitious Market Garden airdrop in the Netherlands in September 1944, fighting to secure bridges and towns.
Bastogne and the Bulge: During the Battle of the Bulge, the 502nd helped hold the besieged town of Bastogne, enduring harsh winter conditions and heavy enemy attacks.
Vietnam War Service: Reactivated for Vietnam, the 502nd (now an infantry regiment) fought in some of the conflict’s fiercest battles, including Operation Nevada Eagle.
Gulf War and Beyond: The unit deployed to Saudi Arabia in 1990 as part of Operation Desert Shield and later participated in Operation Desert Storm, helping liberate Kuwait.
Modern Deployments: The 502nd has been active in the Global War on Terror, with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan supporting major combat and nation-building operations.
Cultural Legacy: The 502nd’s World War II exploits were depicted in the acclaimed HBO miniseries “Band of Brothers,” highlighting the courage and sacrifices of its paratroopers.