ABOUT 1:12th Infantry
- Long Heritage: The 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment (“1/12th Infantry”) traces its lineage back to 1861, originally constituted as part of the 12th Infantry during the American Civil War.
- Civil War Service: The regiment fought in major battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of Antietam, earning a reputation for valor.
- World War II: As part of the 4th Infantry Division, 1/12th Infantry landed on Utah Beach during the D-Day invasion and fought across France, Belgium, and Germany.
- Vietnam War: The battalion was heavily engaged in Vietnam, participating in numerous operations including Operation Junction City, and suffered significant casualties during the conflict.
- Decorations: The 1/12th Infantry has earned multiple Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and foreign awards such as the French Croix de Guerre with Palm.
- Modern Deployments: In recent years, 1/12th Infantry has deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting counterinsurgency and training missions.
- Operation Phantom Fury: Elements of 1/12th Infantry participated in the Second Battle of Fallujah, one of the bloodiest urban battles during the Iraq War.
- Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit’s crest features a blue shield with a silver cross, symbolizing its Civil War origins and continued service.
- “Red Warriors” Nickname: The battalion is often known as the “Red Warriors,” a moniker dating back to its Vietnam service, symbolizing its warrior spirit and courage under fire.
- Legacy and Training: Today, the 1/12th Infantry stands as a part of the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado, where it trains and prepares for future operations, upholding a proud tradition of service.