509th Airborne Mech Infantry

• Origins in World War II: The 509th traces its lineage to the 509th Parachute Infantry Battalion, which became the first American airborne unit to see combat during World War II. • Operation Torch: The original 509th made the first American combat parachute drop during Operation Torch in North Africa in November 1942. • Salerno Landings: Members of the 509th participated in the invasion of Italy, parachuting into Salerno in September 1943 under heavy fire. • The "Geronimo" Nickname: The unit adopted "Geronimo" as its battle cry, a tribute to one of the most famous Apache warriors, symbolizing their fierce fighting spirit. • Redesignation: The current 509th Infantry Regiment (Airborne) has evolved through multiple reorganizations and is now a mechanized infantry unit, combining airborne and armored capabilities. • Jump Into Southern France: The 509th played a pivotal role in Operation Dragoon, the invasion of southern France in August 1944, making another combat parachute drop. • Decorated Service: The 509th has received numerous unit citations, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the French Croix de Guerre, for its bravery and performance in combat. • Fort Polk and Fort Chaffee: Throughout its history, elements of the 509th have been stationed at both Fort Polk, Louisiana, and Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, serving as the U.S. Army’s opposing force (OPFOR) in training exercises. • Modern Deployments: The 509th Infantry Regiment has deployed units to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the Global War on Terror, showcasing its continued operational relevance. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit's insignia features a red, white, and blue shield with a parachute and a bayonet, symbolizing its airborne and infantry heritage.