About this Unit
The 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment (504 PIR) is a distinguished airborne infantry unit of the United States Army, originally activated in 1942 at Fort Benning, Georgia. As part of the 82nd Airborne Division, the 504 PIR played a crucial role in several major World War II operations, including the invasions of Sicily and Italy, and the legendary combat actions at Anzio and Nijmegen during Operation Market Garden. The regiment earned the nickname "Devils in Baggy Pants" from German adversaries, reflecting their fierce reputation in battle. Since World War II, the 504 PIR has participated in numerous conflicts and peacekeeping missions, continuing its legacy as an elite airborne force within the U.S. Army.
Historical Facts
•
Origins: The 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment (504th PIR) was activated on May 1, 1942, at Fort Benning, Georgia, and became part of the famed 82nd Airborne Division.
•
Sicily Jump: The 504th PIR executed its first combat jump during Operation Husky, the Allied invasion of Sicily in July 1943, marking one of the earliest large-scale American airborne operations.
•
"Devils in Baggy Pants": The regiment earned its nickname "Devils in Baggy Pants" from a German officer’s diary, who described the paratroopers’ fierce fighting spirit and distinctive uniforms.
•
Salerno Landings: In September 1943, the 504th PIR conducted a daring night jump into Salerno, Italy, reinforcing embattled Allied forces and playing a crucial role in the success of Operation Avalanche.
•
Bridge at Nijmegen: During Operation Market Garden in September 1944, the 504th PIR famously captured the Waal River Bridge at Nijmegen by executing a daylight river crossing under heavy fire—a feat immortalized in the film "A Bridge Too Far."
•
Battle of the Bulge: Although the 504th missed the Normandy Invasion due to previous heavy casualties, they played a vital role in the relief of Bastogne and the Ardennes Offensive (Battle of the Bulge) in December 1944.
•
Presidential Unit Citation: For extraordinary heroism during the Italian Campaign, the 504th PIR became the first American parachute unit to receive the Presidential Unit Citation.
•
Post-WWII Service: The 504th PIR has remained an active component of the 82nd Airborne Division, serving in numerous conflicts including the Dominican Republic (Operation Power Pack), Grenada (Operation Urgent Fury), and the Global War on Terror.
•
Medal of Honor: Private First Class Charles N. DeGlopper of the 504th was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Normandy Campaign in June 1944.
•
Regimental Motto and Traditions: The regiment's motto is "Strike Hold." The 504th PIR is known for its rich traditions, including the wearing of the maroon beret and participation in annual commemorations of historic airborne operations.
