About this Unit
The 5th Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment (5/15), is a distinguished unit that has served under the 1st Infantry Division of the United States Army. The 15th Infantry Regiment traces its origins back to the Civil War, with a proud lineage in major conflicts including World Wars I and II, Korea, and Vietnam. As part of the 1st Infantry Division, 5/15 played vital roles in various operations, demonstrating valor and professionalism in both combat and peacekeeping missions. Today, the regiment continues to uphold its legacy of excellence, serving with honor in support of U.S. Army missions worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 5th Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment ("5/15 IN") is part of the storied 15th Infantry Regiment, which was first constituted in 1861 and has a lineage intertwined with many major U.S. Army campaigns.
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World War II Service: The 15th Infantry Regiment fought valiantly in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France, and Germany as part of the 3rd Infantry Division, earning numerous campaign streamers.
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Korean War: The regiment, including units like the 5/15, was heavily engaged in the Korean War, participating in fierce battles such as the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and the advance to the Yalu River.
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Assignment to the 1st Infantry Division: The 5th Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, was assigned to the 1st Infantry Division ("Big Red One") during periods of reorganization, reflecting the Army’s changing structure post-Vietnam.
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Vietnam Era: Elements of the 15th Infantry, including 5/15, served in Vietnam, conducting operations in challenging terrains and earning a reputation for resilience.
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Famous Alumni: The 15th Infantry Regiment's most famous member is Audie Murphy, the most decorated U.S. soldier of World War II, although he was with the 3rd Infantry Division.
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Cold War Deployments: Throughout the Cold War, the 5/15 IN participated in major NATO exercises in Europe, demonstrating U.S. commitment to allied defense.
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Unit Motto: The regiment's motto, “Can Do,” reflects its ethos and is proudly carried by the 5/15 Battalion.
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Legacy Honors: The 15th Infantry Regiment has received numerous unit citations and foreign awards, including the French Croix de Guerre and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
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Modern Era: The 5th Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, continues its legacy in various forms, with its lineage preserved through reflagging and reactivation in modern U.S. Army organizations, upholding its proud traditions.
