About this Unit
The 11th Infantry Regiment, originally constituted in the U.S. Army in 1812, has a distinguished history of service in numerous American conflicts. It fought in the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, and played a significant role in the Civil War, participating in major battles such as Gettysburg and Antietam. The regiment also served in the Philippine-American War, World War I, and World War II, where it took part in campaigns across Europe. Throughout its history, the 11th Infantry has exemplified valor and dedication, earning numerous battle honors and decorations.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in the War of 1812: The 11th Infantry Regiment was first constituted on January 11, 1812, in response to the looming conflict with Britain, making it one of the oldest active units in the U.S. Army.
•
Battle of Chippewa: The regiment distinguished itself during the War of 1812 at the Battle of Chippewa, earning its first battlefield honors.
•
Civil War Service: During the American Civil War, the 11th Infantry fought in many key battles, including Antietam, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, and the Wilderness.
•
Buffalo Soldiers Connection: After the Civil War, elements of the regiment served in the Western frontier, sometimes alongside and sometimes replacing the famed Buffalo Soldiers.
•
World War I Actions: The 11th Infantry was part of the American Expeditionary Forces in France, participating in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive and earning a unit citation for its service.
•
World War II Heroics: Assigned to the 5th Infantry Division, the regiment landed in Normandy in July 1944 and fought through France, helping liberate Metz and crossing the Rhine into Germany.
•
Patton’s Praise: General George S. Patton praised the 11th Infantry for its relentless advance and effectiveness during the Lorraine Campaign in WWII.
•
Vietnam War Training: The 11th Infantry did not serve as a full regiment in Vietnam but provided training and cadre personnel for units deploying to Southeast Asia.
•
Fort Benning Heritage: The 11th Infantry Regiment is closely associated with Fort Benning, Georgia, where it has served as the demonstration and training regiment for the U.S. Army Infantry School.
•
Motto and Insignia: The regiment’s motto, “Semper Fidelis” (“Always Faithful”), predates the U.S. Marine Corps’ adoption of the phrase. Its insignia features a blue shield and a red cross pattée, symbolizing its Civil War and earlier service.
