About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 151st Infantry Regiment (1/151 INF) is a unit of the Indiana Army National Guard with a distinguished lineage tracing back to the early 19th century. The regiment’s origins are linked to the Indiana Territory Militia, which fought at the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811. Throughout its history, 1/151 INF has served in major conflicts including the Civil War, World War I, World War II—where it participated in the Pacific Theater—as well as more recent deployments for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Today, 1/151 INF remains a vital component of the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, upholding its legacy of service and readiness.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the American Civil War: The 1st Battalion, 151st Infantry (1/151 INF) traces its lineage to Indiana volunteer regiments that served in the Union Army during the Civil War. Its heritage includes distinguished service in numerous campaigns.
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Indiana’s Oldest Infantry: The 151st Infantry Regiment is recognized as Indiana’s oldest infantry regiment, with roots going back to 1846 and service in the Mexican-American War.
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World War I Service: The regiment served as part of the 38th Infantry Division in World War I, participating in several key operations on the Western Front in France.
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World War II Pacific Campaign: 1/151 INF fought in the Pacific Theater during World War II, including the New Guinea and Luzon campaigns, earning several battle honors.
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Vietnam War Reconnaissance: The 151st Infantry was the only National Guard infantry unit to serve intact in Vietnam, performing long-range reconnaissance patrols (LRRP) with distinction from 1968–1969.
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“The Indiana Rangers” Nickname: 1/151 INF is famously known as “The Indiana Rangers,” a nod to its reconnaissance and elite patrolling skills, especially during the Vietnam War.
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Presidential Unit Citation: For its actions in Vietnam, Company D (Ranger), 151st Infantry earned the Presidential Unit Citation, one of the highest unit awards in the U.S. military.
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Post-9/11 Deployments: Elements of 1/151 INF have served in Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, continuing their legacy of overseas service.
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Community Service: The battalion is known for its readiness and is often called on for domestic operations, including disaster relief and civil support missions in the state of Indiana.
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Regimental Motto and Insignia: The unit’s motto is “Wide Awake – Wide Awake!” and its distinctive unit insignia features a coiled rattlesnake, symbolizing vigilance and readiness to strike.
