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5:20th Infantry

U.S. Army•16 members

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About this Unit

5:20th Infantry

U.S. Army

The 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment (5/20th Infantry) is a distinguished unit of the United States Army with a history dating back to its original activation in 1866. The battalion saw significant action during the Vietnam War, where it participated in numerous combat operations and earned several unit commendations for valor and performance. In the modern era, 5/20th Infantry has been part of the 1st Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, and has deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. The battalion continues to uphold its proud legacy of service and excellence as a key component of the Army’s Stryker Brigade Combat Teams.

About 5:20th Infantry

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins: The 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment ("5/20th Infantry") traces its lineage to the 20th Infantry Regiment, which was originally constituted in 1861 during the American Civil War.
Nickname: The 5/20th is often known as "Sykes’ Regulars," a nickname inherited from the original 20th Infantry and linked to Major General George Sykes.
Vietnam War Service: The 5/20th Infantry was activated and deployed to Vietnam in 1966, where it served with distinction as part of the 11th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division.
Battle of Hiep Duc: During the Vietnam War, the unit participated in the intense Battle of Hiep Duc Valley in 1969, earning a Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism.
Tet Offensive: The battalion played a significant role in countering the Tet Offensive in 1968, conducting search-and-destroy missions in Quang Ngai Province.
Modern Deployments: The 5/20th Infantry has deployed to Iraq multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and has also been deployed to Afghanistan.
Mechanized Infantry: In recent decades, 5/20th Infantry has served as a mechanized infantry battalion, operating Bradley Fighting Vehicles as part of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
Recognition: Members of 5/20th Infantry have been awarded numerous individual decorations, including Silver Stars, Bronze Stars, and Purple Hearts for valor and sacrifice.
Community Relations: The battalion is known for strong community ties in Washington State, often participating in local events, parades, and outreach programs.
Motto: The battalion’s motto is "Duty, Not Reward," reflecting its commitment to selfless service and mission accomplishment.

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5:20th Infantry

U.S. Army•16 members

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About this Unit

5:20th Infantry

U.S. Army

Unit members

Bruce Hicks

U.S. Army Other · 2007 - 2009

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Greg Dodson

U.S. Army · 1987 - 1989

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Jarvis Wilson

U.S. Army · 1999 - 2001

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Sean Kreyling

U.S. Army Veteran · 1996 - 1998

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Army photos

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About 5:20th Infantry

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins: The 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment ("5/20th Infantry") traces its lineage to the 20th Infantry Regiment, which was originally constituted in 1861 during the American Civil War.
Nickname: The 5/20th is often known as "Sykes’ Regulars," a nickname inherited from the original 20th Infantry and linked to Major General George Sykes.
Vietnam War Service: The 5/20th Infantry was activated and deployed to Vietnam in 1966, where it served with distinction as part of the 11th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division.
Battle of Hiep Duc: During the Vietnam War, the unit participated in the intense Battle of Hiep Duc Valley in 1969, earning a Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism.
Tet Offensive: The battalion played a significant role in countering the Tet Offensive in 1968, conducting search-and-destroy missions in Quang Ngai Province.
Modern Deployments: The 5/20th Infantry has deployed to Iraq multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and has also been deployed to Afghanistan.
Mechanized Infantry: In recent decades, 5/20th Infantry has served as a mechanized infantry battalion, operating Bradley Fighting Vehicles as part of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
Recognition: Members of 5/20th Infantry have been awarded numerous individual decorations, including Silver Stars, Bronze Stars, and Purple Hearts for valor and sacrifice.
Community Relations: The battalion is known for strong community ties in Washington State, often participating in local events, parades, and outreach programs.
Motto: The battalion’s motto is "Duty, Not Reward," reflecting its commitment to selfless service and mission accomplishment.