National Infantry Association

🎖️ 🎖️Celebrating Excellence at 3-47 Infantry Battalions Order of Saint Maurice Presentation today July 19, 2024!

Today, we proudly honor the distinguished recipients of the Order of Saint Maurice (OSM), a prestigious award named after Saint Maurice, the legendary Roman soldier who exemplified courage and leadership. This award recognizes individuals who have displayed exceptional commitment and leadership within the Infantry, upholding the highest standards of service.

Among today's awardees from the 3-47 IN BN Headquarters Staff are:

SPC Dennys J. Verdin
SGT Skyler P. Barriere
SFC Claudine A. Beckford

Their contributions have positively impacted the Infantry and continue to inspire excellence. Join us in congratulating these exceptional individuals!

18 July 1918 - 106th Anniversary - Battle of Soissons

Fought on the Western Front during World War I from 18 to 22 July 1918 as part of the much larger Allied Aisne-Marne counter-offensive. The primary objective of the attack was to cut the main supply routes for the German forces in the Marne salient. Controlling the Soissons – Château-Thierry road and the railroad running south from Soissons to Château-Thierry would severely impair the Germans' ability to supply its armies defending it, forcing a retreat that would give up their gains.

This battle marked the turning point of the war as the Germans would be on the defensive for the remainder of the conflict.

The Seventh United States Infantry Regiment possesses an illustrious history as one of the five oldest continuously serving regiments in the U.S. Army, organized under an act of Congress approved July 16, 1798, with William Bently as Lieutenant Colonel Commandant. After an existence of less than two years, the regiment was honorably mustered out of the service on the 15th of June, 1800, under the provisions of an Act approved May 4, 1800.

The regiment was again organized on the 3d of May, 1808, under the act of Congress approved April 12, 1808, with William Russell as colonel. In its 200-year history it has participated in 12 wars, been awarded 78 campaign streamers, and 14 unit decorations.

Attention Airborne Community!

🚨 Reminder: The Order of St. Michael (Airborne) Awards board will convene on July 18th! 🚨

⏰ Nomination Deadline: July 16th by 10:00 AM Eastern Time ⏰

Whether you know someone deserving or want to nominate yourself, don't miss this chance to be recognized! Visit Order of St. Michael-Airborne - NATIONAL INFANTRY ASSOCIATION (infantryassn.org) for all the details on how to submit your nominations.

On June 4, 2024, the Order of St. Maurice was presented to SFC Devin Smith (left), Senior Drill Sergeant with the Warrior Training Battalion (A), Prior Service Army Integration Course (PS-AIC), ARNG WTC (BDE), Fort Moore, Georgia, by MSG Bob Ehrreich (center) of WTC (BDE).

Happy Independence Day from the National Infantry Association‼

MCoE’s CATD leadership presentation ceremony for the Order of Saint Maurice to the following MCCC instructors: (from right to left) CPT Enrique Zelaya (Centurion), CPT Ethan Mack, and CPT Jordan Scanlan (Centurion).

Today, on the 27th of June 2024, a momentous occasion unfolded as CPL Connor Marshall of the British Army was bestowed with the prestigious Order of Saint Maurice by none other than COL (R) Robert Choppa, esteemed President of the National Infantry Association. This distinguished recognition comes in light of CPL Marshall's exceptional service while serving with Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 58th Infantry Regiment, under the military exchange program.

This historic event also signifies a significant milestone, as it marks the inaugural collaboration of the exchange program with One Station Unit Training (OSUT). CPL Marshall's dedication and prowess have not only exemplified the spirit of international cooperation but have also set a new standard in military excellence. His achievement today underscores the profound impact of camaraderie and shared commitment across borders, forging stronger bonds within the global military community.

FR to L: Peter Plank, Celine Ashe, COL (Ret.) Robert Choppa and David Ashe, in Ravenoville, France at the 101st and 82nd Airborne Memorial on June 7, 2024.

📸 by Eddy Bertels

COL. Rob M. Shaw, Brigade Commander of the 3d Infantry Brigade Combat Team, presented the Order of Saint Maurice (Civis) to Roland G. Lewis, the 3d Infantry Brigade Combat Teams Safety & Occupational Health Specialist, at the Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

Mr. Lewis exemplifies the Army’s values, strong work ethic, and dependability. He has been instrumental to the success of 3IBCT's accomplishments in daily missions, crucial training operations, and future planning. His 26 years of experience with military operations provided foresight and guidance at all command levels for the successful ex*****on of both garrison and field exercises. His tenacity for Soldier’s safety, saved lives. He truly represents the “None Better” motto of the Bronco Brigade and his tenure here has positively influenced and impacted the next generation of Infantry leaders through his dedication and unwavering commitment. Most importantly, his competence and tactical experience has been absolutely critical to preserving the safety and welfare of Soldiers in this Infantry Brigade. Mr. Lewis is an exceptionally gifted and caring leader who is well-deserving of the Order of St. Maurice (Civis).

On 13 June 2024, the Order of St. Maurice was presented to MSG Joe Brown (Center) A Co, Warrior Training Battalion (A), WTC (BDE), FT. Moore, GA of the Minnesota ARNG by 1SG Jaime Jimenez (Left) of WTB (A) and MSG Bob Ehrreich (Right) of WTC (BDE).

On 31 May, Army Major Tony Nguyen presented Major Scott Wood with the Order of Saint Maurice at UNC headquarters in South Korea. Major Wood's children Madeline, Elliana, and Allis are also pictured with him.

On 31 May 2024, Major Casey Martin received the Order of St. Maurice from MSG Ernesto Tamarra at US SOUTHCOM HQ, Florida.

UNITED STATES ARMY 249TH BIRTHDAY‼

On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress authorizes the enlistment of expert riflemen to serve the United Colonies for one year. This launches the U.S. Army as America's first national institution, more than a year before the Declaration of Independence is published on July 4, 1776.

“Resolved, that six companies of expert riflemen, be immediately raised in Pennsylvania, two in Maryland, and two in Virginia…that each company, as soon as completed, shall march and join the Army near Boston, to be there employed as light infantry, under the command of the chief Officer in that army,” said the Continental Congress resolution.

With the resolution, the congress adopted the New England Army of Observation, making it the Continental Army. The fighters were charged with defending the 13 American colonies from British attack in the Revolutionary War.

One day after issuing the resolution, Congress unanimously selected George Washington, a Virginian with a strong military record, as commander in chief of the new army. Washington received his commission on June 19, 1775; after leading the colonial army to victory over the British, he was elected the new nation’s first president in 1789.

This first branch of the Army formed was the Infantry. Two days later, on June 16, 1775, came the Adjutant General’s Corps, Corps of Engineers, Finance Corps and Quartermaster Corps. Five months later, on November 17, the Air Defense Artillery and Field Artillery branches were formed, followed by Armor on December 12. Three special branches also started in July 1775: the Army Medical Department on July 27, and Chaplains and Judge Advocate General’s Corps on July 29.

Order of Saint Maurice presentations in Washington, DC.

First presentation was to COL Arthur Romanillos, the Defense and Army Attache of the Republic of the Philippines.

On 28 May The order of Saint Maurice was presented to BG Panos Vlachopolous, the Greek Defense Attache.

Both of these outstanding officers have done great work in support of our efforts to honor the great 3rd Infantry Division.

248th Anniversary of committee created to draft Declaration of Independence

On June 11, 1776, anticipating that the vote for independence would be favorable, Congress appointed a committee to draft a declaration: Thomas Jefferson of Virginia, Roger Sherman of Connecticut, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, Robert R. Livingston of New York, and John Adams of Massachusetts.

It was our honor to present SFC Keith Wood with his OofSM on May 19,2024 at the VFW post 6978 in New Whiteland, IN. To the left 1SG (Ret.) Robert Darringer, middle SFC Keith Wood, and to the right SFC (Ret.) Bradley Hall.

On 23 May 2024, the Order of St. Maurice was presented to CSM Michael Olivas (Center) 1st Squadron 32nd Cavalry Regiment by SFC Derrick Milburn (Left) of ARTB and SGM Derek Leach (Right) of 1st Brigade Combat Team" Bastogne" at Fort Campbell KY.

🚨 URGENT: 2024 Infantry Ball tickets sales end TOMORROW, June 7th‼️This is your FINAL chance to be part of the year's most unforgettable event. Act NOW before they sell out‼️🎟️🔥

https://infantryassn.org/2024-infantry-birthday-ball/

80th Anniversary of D-Day - a day known as the greatest amphibious landing in history

On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched Operation Overlord—the codename for the massive Allied invasion of Normandy, France—with more than 150,000 troops. Ending with approximately 20,000 casualties on both sides, those who took part witnessed one of the most pivotal battles against Axis forces and the beginning of a prolonged, costly, but ultimately successful campaign to liberate northwest Europe.

On this Day:

4 JUNE 1944

Liberation of Rome – 80th Anniversary

On June 4, 1944, the 3rd, 34th, 36th, 85th, and 88th Infantry Regiments achieved a monumental victory by capturing Rome, the first Axis capital to fall. This pivotal moment in WWII highlighted their extraordinary bravery and strategic skill. Their sacrifices and heroism significantly altered the course of the war, leaving an enduring legacy of courage and determination. Their legacy of sacrifice and courage endures.

240th Anniversary of Original First Infantry (oldest in U.S. Army)

The original First Infantry was first organized under Resolve of Congress of date June 3, 1784, to serve twelve months, and was continued by subsequent Resolves until it was recognized by the Act of September 29, 1789, as the "Regiment of Infantry" in the service of the United States. The Act of April 30, 1790, more fully completed its organization and when a second regiment was formed under the Act of March 3, 1791, the older organization became the "First Regiment of Infantry."

The regiment was to consist of 700 men from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Connecticut. Eight infantry and two artillery companies comprised the regiment.

Command of the regiment involved complicated and confusing lines of authority. The Congress, still a weak and ineffective body under the Articles of Confederation, exercised direct control. A Secretary at War administrated the orders of Congress.

The First American Regiment did not fare well in its early days. Pay was low – $6.67 a month for a private – and the regiment still could not fill the 700-man roster by 1789. Moreover, Congress did not clothe, feed or equip the small force properly.

Brevet Brigadier General Josiah Harmar was the first "lieutenant colonel commandant" of the regiment and commanded it until his resignation in 1792. He was also "General in Chief of the Army," and in that capacity conducted the expedition against the Miami Indians in Ohio in September and October, 1790.

Under Harmar, the Regiment was posted to the old Northwest Territory, now Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan. It was charged with carrying out four main missions: controlling immigration to the new lands, building forts, negotiating treaties with the Indians, and protecting surveyors and settlers in the area. While supplies were often limited, the Regiment usually possessed more than enough weapons. The soldiers utilized Revolutionary War fi****ms, such as the French .69 caliber musket of the Charleville pattern.

On 18 May, 4th Ranger Training Brigade inducted SSG Ryan Cuomo and SSG Jonathan Bishop. These Two have been a great impact to the Ranger Community serving as the Squad Leaders for the Opposition Force, FRIES/SPIES Master for RIA graduation, and Airborne operations. Always leading from the front and continuously developing our junior Soldiers. Congratulations to SSG Bishop and SSG Cuomo.

On 10MAY the 2nd Battalion 87th Infantry Regiment held their Battalion Ball shortly after re-deploying for CENTCOM. 20 OSMs were awarded to Leaders within the organization.

Top row from left to right
Top Row: CPT John Karber, MAJ Joseph Beckman, CPT Dennis Stydinger, CPT Ian Cain, 1SG Brian Schnell, 1SG Andrew Acuna, 1SG Timothy Hardy, 1SG Robert Blend, 1SG Jeff Desrosier, 1SG Tony Giannone, SFC Jeremy Bartlett, SFC Anthony Nemec, SFC Christopher Begay, SSG Jacob Gouveia

Bottom Row from left to right: CPT LaQuon Brown, CPT Forrest Keller, CPT Jonathan Hopkins, SFC Tyler Wiggins, SSG Michael Clear, SFC Marcus Roeschberger

Also pictured are the 2nd Brigade Combat Team 10th Mountain Division BDE CDR COL Scott Wence and Mrs. Wence and BDE CSM Christopher Donaldson and Mrs. Donaldson

Other photos of dawning medallions:
2-87 IN BN CDR LTC Garrett Turley and BN CSM Michael McQuality awarding the OSM to members of the CATAMOUNT Battalion. "Conquer Men and Mountains"

For every Armed Services Member that made the Ultimate Sacrifice in HONOR of Country, we will never forget you! We will always HONOR you!

LTC Tim Stoy, US Army, ret. and CPT C. Monika Stoy, US Army, ret., both St Maurice award recipients, were presented the St. Michael - Airborne award by Doughboy award recipient GEN (ret.) Dan Allyn on 23 April 2024 at the grave of 187th ARCT Korean War Medal of Honor recipient Rudy Hernandez in Sand Hills Veterans Cemetery in Spring Lake, North Carolina in conjunction with a Korean War commemoration hosted by Outpost International of the Society of the 3rd Infantry Division. (Photo credit Ken Karrens of the JFK Special Warfare Center and School)

The discounted hotel block window is closing tomorrow, Friday, 5/24‼

Less than three weeks to get your tickets before they’re SOLD OUT!
Register and get your tickets for the 2024 Infantry Ball‼ Can't wait to see everyone in June‼

⬇⬇⬇
https://infantryassn.org/2024-Infantry-Birthday-Ball/

On 26 April 2024, the Order of St. Maurice was presented to CW3 Sean Shirey (right) of 4th BN 1st Special Warfare Training Group (Airborne) by 1SG William Teter (left) of 4th BN HHC 1st Special Warfare Training Group (Airborne) at Ft Liberty NC.

Only three weeks until the cut-off, get your tickets soon before they’re SOLD OUT!

Register and get your tickets for the 2024 Infantry Ball‼ Can't wait to see everyone in June‼
⬇⬇⬇
https://infantryassn.org/2024-Infantry-Birthday-Ball/

On April 2024 at the U.S. Southern Command Headquarters, Doral, Florida, MSG Ernesto Tamarra (center) was presented the Order of St. Michael by SGM Michael Helton.