2nd Bat 50th Inf (Mech)

• Origins in World War I: The 50th Infantry Regiment was constituted on 15 May 1917 in the Regular Army and organized at Syracuse, New York, during World War I. • World War II Service: The 50th Infantry was reactivated and served in various capacities during World War II, notably as a training and replacement unit rather than in combat. • Vietnam War Redesignation: The 2nd Battalion, 50th Infantry (Mechanized) was reactivated and deployed to Vietnam in September 1967, operating as a mechanized infantry battalion. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit's insignia features a blue shield and a bayonet, symbolizing infantry heritage, with a motto "Play the Game". • The Battle of An Bao: On May 5-6, 1968, the 2nd Battalion, 50th Infantry (Mech) engaged in a fierce battle near An Bao, Binh Dinh Province, Vietnam, suffering heavy casualties but inflicting significant losses on enemy forces. • Operations in the Central Highlands: The battalion operated extensively in the Central Highlands, often providing security for convoys on Highway 19 and participating in search-and-destroy missions. • Decorations: The unit earned the Valorous Unit Award and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm for its actions during the Vietnam War. • Post-Vietnam Assignments: After Vietnam, the 2-50 Infantry was inactivated in 1970, but later reactivated at Fort Hood, Texas, as part of the 2nd Armored Division. • Modern Role: Today, the 2nd Battalion, 50th Infantry Regiment is part of the US Army Infantry School at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), Georgia, focusing on training new infantry soldiers. • Alumni and Legacy: Veterans of the 2-50th Infantry maintain a strong association, sharing stories and preserving the unit's legacy through reunions, publications, and memorials.