ABOUT 4-31 infantry
- Origins in the Philippines: The 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment ("Polar Bears") was originally constituted in 1916 and first organized in the Philippines in 1917, making it one of the oldest active battalions in the US Army.
- Polar Bear Nickname: The regiment earned the nickname "Polar Bears" after serving in the bitter cold of Siberia during the Allied intervention in the Russian Civil War (1918–1920).
- Siberian Expedition: The 31st Infantry Regiment, including elements of what would become 4-31 IN, was part of the American Expeditionary Force sent to Siberia, a rare deployment for US Army units.
- Philippine Defense in WWII: The unit fought valiantly in the defense of the Philippines during World War II, including the battles of Bataan and Corregidor, before many were captured and endured the Bataan Death March.
- Korean War Valor: The 31st Infantry Regiment saw heavy combat in the Korean War, participating in the Chosin Reservoir campaign, one of the most grueling battles of the conflict.
- Vietnam War Service: The 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry served in Vietnam, where it earned a Presidential Unit Citation for actions during the Tet Counteroffensive in 1968.
- Iraq and Afghanistan Deployments: In the 21st century, 4-31 IN has deployed multiple times in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, conducting combat and stability operations.
- Current Assignment: Today, 4-31 Infantry is assigned to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, NY, continuing its legacy of service.
- Famous Medal of Honor Recipients: Several members of the 31st Infantry have received the Medal of Honor, including Staff Sergeant Junior J. Spurrier for actions in World War II.
- Regimental Motto: The 31st Infantry’s motto is "Pro Patria" (For Country), reflecting its long and storied tradition of dedication and sacrifice.