About this Unit
Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment (HHC 3/3 Infantry), traces its lineage to the historic 3rd Infantry Regiment, known as "The Old Guard," which was first constituted in 1784. Over the centuries, the 3rd Battalion and its HHC have served in numerous conflicts, including the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and more recent operations. As part of The Old Guard, HHC 3/3 Infantry has played a vital role in ceremonial duties in the National Capital Region, honor funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, and security missions. Today, the unit continues its dual mission of ceremonial excellence and readiness to respond to defense requirements.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Old Guard: HHC, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment is part of the famed "Old Guard," the oldest active-duty infantry unit in the U.S. Army, originally established in 1784.
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Presidential Escort: The 3rd Infantry Regiment is renowned for its ceremonial duties, including serving as the official escort to the President of the United States during state functions and inaugurations.
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Arlington National Cemetery: Soldiers from HHC, 3/3 Infantry regularly participate in ceremonial functions at Arlington National Cemetery, including the famous Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
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Historical Campaigns: The 3rd Infantry Regiment has served in every major American conflict since the Revolutionary War, including the War of 1812, Mexican-American War, Civil War, World Wars I and II, and the Global War on Terrorism.
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Distinctive Insignia: The unit’s distinctive unit insignia features a blue and white shield with a bayonet, symbolizing its long infantry history.
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Operation Garden Plot: In the 1960s and 1970s, elements of the 3rd Infantry Regiment were designated as a rapid response force for domestic disturbances under Operation Garden Plot.
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9/11 Response: After the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, HHC, 3/3 Infantry provided security and ceremonial support in the Washington, D.C. area, including recovery operations at the Pentagon.
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Role in State Funerals: The unit has played a prominent role in numerous state funerals, including those of Presidents John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush.
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Motto: The regiment’s motto, “Noli Me Tangere” ("Touch Me Not"), reflects its proud tradition of honor and readiness.
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Modern Missions: Today, HHC, 3/3 Infantry continues to balance its ceremonial mission with readiness for real-world contingencies, supporting both homeland defense and overseas deployments as needed.
