2:502 Inf 101st Airborne

• World War II Origins: The 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment (“2/502”) was originally constituted in 1942 as part of the 101st Airborne Division, making its combat debut in the D-Day landings in Normandy, France. • Normandy Drop: On June 6, 1944, soldiers of the 2/502 parachuted into France as part of Operation Overlord, playing a key role in securing exits from Utah Beach and disrupting German communications. • “Strike Force” Nickname: The battalion is often referred to as “Strike Force,” a testament to its aggressive combat doctrine and proud lineage. • Battle of Carentan: The 2/502 played a significant role in the Battle of Carentan, helping to secure the vital town and link up the Utah and Omaha Beachheads. • Bastogne and the Bulge: During the Battle of the Bulge, 2/502 helped defend the besieged town of Bastogne against German forces, enduring freezing temperatures and heavy artillery barrages. • Vietnam War Service: The 2/502 was one of the first U.S. Army units deployed to Vietnam, seeing extensive combat in places like the A Shau Valley and during the Tet Offensive. • Hamburger Hill: Soldiers from 2/502 participated in the infamous Battle of Hamburger Hill (Hill 937) in May 1969, a costly and controversial engagement with North Vietnamese forces. • Modern Deployments: The battalion deployed to the Middle East for Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, demonstrating adaptability in urban and counterinsurgency operations. • Presidential Unit Citations: The 2/502 has been awarded multiple Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism in action, including for their actions in Normandy and Bastogne. • Legacy and Motto: The battalion’s motto, “Strike and Hold”, reflects its tradition of seizing objectives and maintaining them despite enemy counterattacks—a legacy honored by current and former members alike.