About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment (2-2 Infantry), known as the "Ramrods," is one of the oldest units in the U.S. Army, tracing its lineage back to 1808. The battalion has fought in major conflicts including the War of 1812, the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism. In World War II, 2-2 Infantry played a key role in the Normandy landings and subsequent campaigns across Europe. In recent decades, the battalion has been deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, earning a reputation for professionalism and valor in combat operations.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the War of 1812: The 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment (2-2 Infantry) traces its lineage back to 1808, making it one of the oldest continuously serving infantry units in the United States Army.
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Battle Honors in Major Conflicts: The unit has participated in virtually every major American conflict, from the War of 1812 through the Mexican-American War, Civil War, World Wars I and II, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
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Nickname – “Ramrods”: The 2-2 Infantry is commonly known as the “Ramrods,” a nickname that reflects their hard-hitting reputation and tenacity in battle.
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Famous World War II Action: The 2-2 Infantry fought in the Normandy landings and the subsequent campaign across France, including the liberation of Paris and the Battle of the Bulge.
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Vietnam War Valor: The battalion earned multiple decorations for valor during intense operations in Vietnam, including fighting in places like Cu Chi and the Iron Triangle.
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First Mechanized Infantry: The unit was one of the first in the U.S. Army to convert to mechanized infantry, adapting to changing battlefield requirements during the Cold War.
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Post-9/11 Deployments: 2-2 Infantry has served multiple tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan, participating in significant operations such as the Battle of Fallujah in 2004 and Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Several soldiers from the 2-2 Infantry have received the Medal of Honor throughout its history for acts of extraordinary heroism.
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Part of the “Dagger Brigade”: Today, 2-2 Infantry is part of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, known as the “Dagger Brigade,” stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas.
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Distinctive Insignia: The unit's distinctive unit insignia features a blue shield with a silver bar and two arrows, symbolizing its long infantry history and readiness for combat.
