About this Unit
The 5th Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment (5/2nd) has a distinguished history within the United States Army, tracing its lineage back to early 19th-century conflicts. The unit participated in major campaigns, including the Civil War, World War II, and the Vietnam War, where it earned numerous commendations for its valor and effectiveness in combat. In recent decades, the 5/2nd has been deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, adapting to modern warfare and counterinsurgency missions. Its enduring legacy is marked by a commitment to excellence and service, upholding the proud traditions of the Infantry.
Historical Facts
• Origins: The 5th Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment (often written as 5/2nd Infantry) traces its lineage back to the original 2nd Infantry Regiment, which was constituted in 1808, making it one of the oldest regiments in the U.S. Army.
• Civil War Service: Elements of the 2nd Infantry Regiment served with distinction during the American Civil War, participating in major battles such as Antietam and Gettysburg.
• Indian Wars: The regiment played a role in the Indian Wars of the late 19th century, being stationed across the western frontier to protect settlers and enforce federal policy.
• World War I: The 2nd Infantry Regiment was assigned to the 5th Division and fought in key battles, including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in 1918.
• World War II: As part of the 5th Infantry Division, the regiment landed at Utah Beach after D-Day, fought in the Battle of the Bulge, and crossed the Rhine River into Germany.
• Korean War: 5th Battalion, 2nd Infantry participated in the Korean War, taking part in defensive and offensive operations along the 38th Parallel.
• Vietnam: The battalion was reactivated and deployed to Vietnam, where it served in multiple campaigns and earned several unit citations for valor and effectiveness.
• “Dragoons” Nickname: The 2nd Infantry Regiment is known as the “Dragoons,” a nod to its early history as mounted infantry, blending mobility and infantry tactics.
• Modern Deployments: In recent decades, 5/2nd Infantry has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, where it has conducted counterinsurgency operations and partnered with allied forces.
• Decorations: The regiment and its battalions have received numerous honors, including Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and foreign decorations such as the French Croix de Guerre.
