181st Infantry

• One of the Oldest: The 181st Infantry Regiment is one of the oldest regiments in the United States Army, with origins dating back to 1636 as part of the Massachusetts Militia. • Lexington and Concord: Members of the 181st Infantry's predecessor units fired some of the first shots of the American Revolution at the Battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775. • Multiple Redesignations: The regiment has undergone several redesignations throughout its history, previously known as the 1st Regiment of Infantry, Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, and the 101st Infantry Regiment. • Civil War Service: The regiment fought in numerous Civil War battles, including Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg, as part of the Union Army. • World War I: During World War I, the 181st Infantry served as part of the 26th “Yankee” Division and took part in major offensives in France, such as the Champagne-Marne and Meuse-Argonne. • World War II: The 181st Infantry was mobilized for World War II and served primarily in coastal defense roles in the United States, as well as providing replacements for overseas units. • Distinctive Insignia: The regiment’s insignia features a blue shield with a gold cross, symbolizing service in the Civil War and the unit's ancient lineage. • Modern Deployments: In the 21st century, the 181st Infantry has deployed elements to Kosovo, the Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan, and the Middle East for various peacekeeping and combat missions. • Decorations and Honors: The regiment has earned numerous campaign streamers and unit citations, including honors for Revolutionary War, Civil War, World War I, and more recent conflicts. • Community Ties: The 181st Infantry has a strong connection to Massachusetts communities, often participating in parades, ceremonies, and disaster response efforts across the state.