About this Unit
**HHC 1/104 26YD Massachusetts Army National Guard** is the Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 1st Battalion, 104th Infantry Regiment, historically part of the 26th Yankee Division (26YD), also known as the "Yankee Division." The 104th Infantry traces its roots back to the American Revolution and served with distinction in World War I, notably at the Battle of Apremont. In World War II, the regiment participated in major campaigns across Europe, including Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. Today, HHC 1/104 provides command and control for battalion operations, supporting state and federal missions as part of the Massachusetts Army National Guard.
Historical Facts
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Origins in Colonial America: The 1st Battalion, 104th Infantry Regiment (1-104th IN) traces its lineage back to colonial militia units formed in Massachusetts during the 1600s, making it one of the oldest military units in the United States.
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Service in the Revolutionary War: Elements of the 104th Infantry’s predecessor units fought during the American Revolution, participating in key battles such as Lexington and Concord.
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Civil War Contributions: The regiment served with distinction in the Civil War, participating in major campaigns and earning battle streamers for their service.
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World War I Distinction: The 104th Infantry was awarded the French Croix de Guerre with Gilt Star for extraordinary heroism during the Second Battle of the Marne in 1918 — the first American unit to receive this honor.
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World War II Campaigns: The 104th Infantry Regiment fought in the European Theater, seeing action in Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe.
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Modern National Guard Service: Today, HHC 1/104th Infantry is part of the 26th Yankee Division (26YD) of the Massachusetts Army National Guard, continuing its legacy of service.
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Emergency Response: The unit has been activated for state emergencies, including responses to natural disasters such as hurricanes, blizzards, and floods throughout Massachusetts.
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Community Engagement: HHC 1/104th regularly participates in community events, parades, and ceremonies, maintaining strong ties with local citizens and veterans’ organizations.
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Training Excellence: The unit is known for rigorous training cycles, including annual training at Camp Edwards and participation in large-scale exercises with other National Guard and Army units.
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Deployment in the Global War on Terrorism: Members of HHC 1/104th Infantry have deployed overseas in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, fulfilling both combat and peacekeeping roles.
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**Note:** The "26YD" refers to the historic 26th Infantry Division ("Yankee Division"), and HHC stands for Headquarters and Headquarters Company. The facts are based on the typical lineage and activities of the 1-104th Infantry Regiment, Massachusetts Army National Guard.
