The 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment (“Black Lions”) carries the legacy of the “Lions of Cantigny,” a unit that fought in World War I and II, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan. As of March 24, 2023, the battalion is inactive, but its storied heritage remains central to its identity. Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment.
The 28th Infantry Regiment was constituted on 2 February 1901 and organized at Vancouver Barracks, Washington. The regiment earned its nickname “Black Lions” (also “Lions of Cantigny”) after its infantrymen were credited with a bold assault at the Battle of Cantigny, World War I—the first major U.S. offensive of the war—and became known as the “Black Lions of Cantigny.” Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
The 1st Battalion of the regiment carries the same nickname and heritage.
Combat History
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World War I: As part of the 1st Infantry Division, the 28th Infantry attacked Cantigny and pressed into the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Wikipedia
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World War II: The 28th Infantry, including its 1st Battalion, served in the European Theater—landing in Normandy, fighting through Northern France, the Rhineland, and Central Europe—earning multiple Presidential Unit Citations. Coach Wyatt+1
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Vietnam War: The 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry (Black Lions) served with the 1st Infantry Division in Vietnam. It earned a strong combat reputation, including heavy fighting during the Tet Offensive and other intense engagements in the rubber plantations and surrounding areas. HistoryNet+1
Notable Medal of Honor recipients from the battalion/regiment include:-
1st Lt. Gary L. Miller (Company A, 1st Battalion) – Vietnam, 1969 Wikipedia+1
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Capt. Eurípides Rubio (HHC, 1st Battalion) – Vietnam, 1966 Wikipedia
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Global War on Terror: The 1st Battalion deployed to Iraq (Baghdad 2007-08) and returned to Fort Benning, Georgia. Wikipedia+1
Status
The 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment was inactivated on 24 March 2023 at Fort Benning, Georgia. Wikipedia+1 Thus, while the battalion is no longer active, its legacy remains significant in U.S. Army history.
Identity & Legacy
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Nickname: “Black Lions” (1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment)
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Motto: Vincit amor patriae (“Love of Country Conquers”). Wikipedia
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Distinctive Identity: The Black Lions are celebrated for their first-in-combat heritage from WWI, their extensive service through WWII, Vietnam, and the wars of the 21st century.
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Campaigns & Honors: Campaign participation from the Philippine Insurrection, WWI (Meuse-Argonne), WWII (Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Central Europe), Vietnam (12 campaigns), Iraq, and Afghanistan. Decorations include multiple Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and foreign decorations. Wikipedia+1
Enduring Significance
Though currently inactive, the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment (Black Lions) remains a powerful symbol of infantry courage and continuity. Its story—from the trenches of Cantigny to modern deployments—captures the evolution of American infantry warfare. Enthusiasts, veterans, and supporters seeking to honor the Black Lions will find resonance in their legacy of valor, teamwork, and enduring pride.
Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment.