About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment (1/31st), is a storied unit with a distinguished history, currently assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division. Originally constituted in 1916, the 31st Infantry has seen action in major conflicts including World War II, the Korean War, and the War on Terror. During the Korean War, the unit earned the nickname "Polar Bears" for its tenacity and resilience during the Chosin Reservoir campaign. Today, the 1/31st Infantry continues its legacy of service as a vital component of the 2nd Infantry Division, upholding traditions of courage and excellence.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 1st Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment (abbreviated 1/31st IN), is a storied unit originally constituted in 1916. It is part of the 31st Infantry Regiment, which has served under various divisions, including the 2nd Infantry Division (“2nd Inf Div”).
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“Polar Bears” Nickname: The 31st Infantry Regiment earned the nickname “Polar Bears” after serving in Siberia during the Russian Civil War (1918–1920), as part of the American Expeditionary Force, Siberia.
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China Service: The 31st Infantry was one of the few U.S. Army units to serve in China, participating in the defense of the International Settlement in Shanghai in the 1920s and 1930s.
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Bataan Death March: Elements of the 31st Infantry fought valiantly in the Philippines during World War II and were among those captured, enduring the infamous Bataan Death March in 1942.
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Korean War Legacy: The 31st Infantry, attached to the 2nd Infantry Division, played a pivotal role during the Korean War, especially in the Chosin Reservoir campaign, suffering heavy casualties while holding the line against overwhelming Chinese forces.
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“Task Force Faith”: During the Battle of Chosin Reservoir, the 1/31st Infantry formed the core of “Task Force Faith,” which conducted one of the most heroic fighting withdrawals in military history, allowing other UN forces to escape encirclement.
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Presidential Unit Citations: The unit and its elements have received multiple Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism in Korea, recognizing their stand at the Chosin Reservoir and other actions.
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Vietnam War Service: The 31st Infantry served in Vietnam, conducting counterinsurgency and combat operations, and earning additional campaign streamers and honors.
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Modern Deployments: In recent decades, battalions of the 31st Infantry Regiment, including 1/31st IN, have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing their tradition of service in America’s conflicts.
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Motto: The regiment’s motto, “Pro Patria” (“For Country”), reflects its long history of dedication and sacrifice in service to the United States.
