ABOUT C 1:18th infantry
- Lineage and Honors: Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment (C 1/18th Infantry) traces its roots back to 1812, making it one of the oldest active infantry regiments in the U.S. Army.
- Civil War Service: The 18th Infantry Regiment fought in key battles during the American Civil War, including the Battle of Shiloh, the Siege of Vicksburg, and the Battle of Chattanooga.
- World War I: The regiment deployed to France with the 1st Infantry Division, participating in major battles such as Cantigny, Soissons, and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive.
- World War II: C 1/18th Infantry landed at Omaha Beach during D-Day on June 6, 1944, and fought through Normandy, the liberation of France, and into Germany.
- Distinctive Unit Insignia: The regiment's insignia features a blue shield (infantry color) with a silver bend and an embattled chief, symbolizing its historic combat service.
- Vietnam War Deployments: The 1/18th Infantry served with distinction in Vietnam from 1965 to 1970, earning multiple unit citations and campaign streamers.
- Modern Deployments: C 1/18th Infantry has participated in recent operations including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
- Nickname "Vanguards": The battalion’s nickname, “Vanguards,” reflects its frequent role as the tip of the spear in assaults and major operations.
- Presidential Unit Citations: The 18th Infantry Regiment has received several Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism in action, including during World War II and Vietnam.
- Continued Service: Today, C 1/18th Infantry is part of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, continuing its legacy of service and excellence.