About this Unit
The First Infantry Division, known as the "Big Red One," is the oldest continuously serving division in the United States Army, activated in 1917 during World War I. The division distinguished itself in the trenches of France and later played a pivotal role in the D-Day landings at Omaha Beach during World War II. Throughout the Cold War, the division was stationed in Germany and participated in operations in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and the Balkans. In the 21st century, the Big Red One has served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, maintaining its reputation as a premier fighting force.
Historical Facts
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Oldest U.S. Division: The First Infantry Division, known as the "Big Red One" for its distinctive shoulder patch, is the oldest continuously serving division in the United States Army, activated in June 1917.
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World War I Debut: The division fought in major World War I battles, including Cantigny, Soissons, and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, becoming the first U.S. division to engage in sustained combat on European soil.
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D-Day Heroes: On June 6, 1944, the Big Red One led the assault on Omaha Beach during D-Day, suffering heavy casualties but playing a crucial role in securing the beachhead.
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North African Campaign: The division participated in Operation Torch, landing in Oran, Algeria, and later fighting at Kasserine Pass in Tunisia, marking America's first major battle against Axis forces in World War II.
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Vietnam War: The First Infantry Division was the first U.S. Army division deployed to Vietnam in 1965, earning a reputation for effectiveness in counterinsurgency operations and jungle warfare.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Over its history, soldiers from the Big Red One have earned more than 30 Medals of Honor for acts of valor and heroism in combat.
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Nickname Origin: The "Big Red One" nickname comes from the division's prominent shoulder patch: a large red numeral "1" on a dark green background, symbolizing its status as the first division.
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Desert Storm: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, the division spearheaded the ground assault into Iraq, breaching enemy lines and capturing thousands of Iraqi soldiers.
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Hollywood Fame: The division's actions inspired the 1980 film The Big Red One, directed by Samuel Fuller, himself a World War II veteran of the division.
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Modern Deployments: The division has served in peacekeeping and combat missions in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan, maintaining its legacy as a deployable and combat-ready force in the 21st century.
