3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids 3rd United States Infantry Regiment |
|
|---|---|
3rd Infantry Regiment coat of arms
|
|
| Active | 3 June 1784 – 20 November 1946 6 April 1948 – present |
| Country |  United States of America |
| Branch |  United States Army |
| Type | Infantry |
| Role | Memorial affairs, ceremonies and special events (two battalions) Stryker infantry (one battalion) |
| Size | Four battalions (three active) |
| Garrison/HQ | 1st Battalion – Fort Myer, VA 2nd Battalion – Fort Lewis, WA 4th Battalion – Fort Myer |
| Nickname(s) | "The Old Guard" |
| Motto(s) | Noli Me Tangere (English: Touch Me Not) |
| Colors | Buff and black (historical) |
| March | The Old Guard March |
| Anniversaries | 21 September-Organization Day |
| Engagements |
|
| Website | http://www.oldguard.mdw.army.mil/ |
| Commanders | |
| Current commander |
COL James J. Tuite IV |
| Notable commanders |
LTC Paul Octave Hébert COL Henry Leavenworth LTC Ethan A. Hitchcock COL Benjamin Bonneville |
| Insignia | |
| Distinctive unit insignia |
 |
| Combat Service Identification Badge |
 |
| Distinctive Trimming (Buff Strap) |
 |
The 3rd United States Infantry Regiment is a very important part of the United States Army. It is sometimes called The Old Guard. It is also known as the Escort to the President. The regiment's special saying, or motto, is Noli Me Tangere. This is a Latin phrase that means "Touch Me Not."
This regiment is the oldest active duty unit in the entire U.S. Army. It was first formed way back in 1784. Since 1948, it has been the official ceremonial unit for the U.S. Army. This means they perform special duties and ceremonies.
Contents
What "The Old Guard" Does
The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment has many important jobs. They are known for their ceremonial duties. These duties include honoring fallen soldiers and taking part in special events.
Honoring Heroes at Arlington
A big part of their job is at Arlington National Cemetery. This is where many brave soldiers are buried. The Old Guard helps with military funerals there. They make sure these ceremonies are respectful and honorable.
Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
One of their most famous roles is guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This tomb honors soldiers whose remains have not been identified. Soldiers from The Old Guard stand guard 24 hours a day, every day of the year. It is a very serious and important duty.
Special Ceremonies and Events
The Old Guard also takes part in many other important events. They perform at state visits for foreign leaders. They also participate in parades and other national celebrations. They are often seen with the President of the United States.
The Caisson Platoon
The regiment has a special group called the Caisson Platoon. These soldiers care for and ride horses. They use horse-drawn carriages, called caissons, in military funerals. This tradition honors soldiers in a very special way.
The Fife and Drum Corps
Another unique part of The Old Guard is its Fife and Drum Corps. This group plays music using fifes (small flutes) and drums. They wear uniforms like those worn during the American Revolutionary War. They perform at many events, bringing history to life.
History of the Regiment
The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment has a long and proud history. It was first formed in 1784. This makes it the oldest active duty regiment in the U.S. Army.
Early Years and Important Battles
In its early days, the regiment fought in many conflicts. They were involved in the American Indian Wars. They also fought in the War of 1812 and the Mexican–American War. These battles helped shape the early United States.
Serving in Major Wars
Over the years, the regiment has served in almost every major war. They fought bravely in the American Civil War. They also took part in the Spanish–American War and the Philippine–American War. Later, they served in World War II and the Vietnam War.
Modern Day Service
More recently, The Old Guard has been involved in the War on Terrorism. This includes operations like Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Even with their ceremonial duties, they are still ready to serve in combat if needed.
Notable Soldiers
Many brave soldiers have served in the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment. Some have been recognized for their courage and leadership.
- James Fegan
- Oscar Burkard
Images for kids
-
The 3rd Infantry during a welcome for French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife for his first state visit to Washington, April 23, 2018
.jpg)
See also
In Spanish: 3.er Regimiento de Infantería (Estados Unidos) para niños
