ABOUT 2nd Bn 30th Inf, B Co., 3rd ID
- Historic Lineage: The 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment ("We Lead the Way") traces its origins to 1813, making it one of the oldest units in the U.S. Army.
- World War II Actions: As part of the 3rd Infantry Division, the unit participated in multiple key WWII campaigns, including the amphibious landings at Sicily, Anzio, and Southern France.
- B Company’s Valor: Soldiers from B Company, 2-30th Infantry earned numerous awards for valor, including Silver Stars and Bronze Stars, particularly during fierce fighting in Italy and France.
- Korean War Service: The 2-30th Infantry fought in several major Korean War battles, including the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and the fight to the Yalu River.
- Presidential Unit Citations: The battalion has received multiple Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism in action, especially during WWII and Korea.
- Modern Deployments: In the 21st century, 2-30th Infantry (including B Company) has deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
- Distinctive Insignia: The unit insignia features a blue shield with a white cross, symbolizing its Civil War service, and a fleur-de-lis representing French campaigns in WWI.
- Motto: The battalion’s motto, “Our Country, Not Ourselves,” reflects its centuries-old ethos of selfless service.
- Historical Firsts: The 2-30th was among the first Army units to cross the Rhine River in WWII and played a pivotal role in the liberation of Dachau concentration camp.
- Medal of Honor Recipients: Multiple soldiers from the 30th Infantry Regiment have been awarded the Medal of Honor, highlighting the unit’s longstanding tradition of bravery.