ABOUT 75th Rangers
- Origins in World War II: The lineage of the 75th Ranger Regiment traces back to the famous "Darby's Rangers" who were formed during World War II in 1942, inspired by British Commandos.
- Daring Raid at Pointe du Hoc: On D-Day, June 6, 1944, Rangers scaled the cliffs at Pointe du Hoc under heavy fire to destroy German artillery threatening the Normandy landings.
- Vietnam War LRP Companies: During the Vietnam War, the 75th Infantry Regiment (Ranger) was constituted to organize Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol (LRRP) companies for deep reconnaissance missions.
- Modern Regiment Activation: The 1st Ranger Battalion was activated in 1974, followed by the 2nd and 3rd Battalions, forming the modern 75th Ranger Regiment.
- Operation Urgent Fury: Rangers executed a daring air assault to rescue American students and seize the airport during the 1983 invasion of Grenada.
- Operation Gothic Serpent: In 1993, Rangers fought alongside Delta Force in the Battle of Mogadishu, Somalia—events made famous by the book and film Black Hawk Down.
- First into Afghanistan: The 75th Rangers were among the first U.S. troops deployed to Afghanistan after 9/11, leading the assault on Objective Rhino in October 2001.
- Global War on Terror: Since 2001, Rangers have conducted thousands of raids, capturing or killing numerous high-value targets including key al-Qaeda and ISIS leaders.
- Distinctive Tan Beret: Rangers wear a tan beret, symbolizing their elite status and heritage, authorized in 2001 to distinguish them from other airborne units.
- Regimental Motto and Creed: The motto "Rangers Lead the Way!" was coined during the Normandy invasion, and every Ranger lives by the Ranger Creed emphasizing mission, comradeship, and never quitting.